Read Clean YA with CJ Episode Thirty-Nine
Welcome to another episode of Read Clean YA with C.J. Milacci, where we explore exciting worlds and epic stories suitable for teens and young adults. Today, we’re diving into a fascinating conversation with Tricia Goyer, USA Today bestselling author of more than 85 books.
Episode Show Notes below
Links to Things Discussed in this Episode
Uncovering History, Legend, and Purpose: Tricia Goyer Talks "Breath of Bones"
Episode Show Notes:
Meet Tricia Goyer
Tricia Goyer is an accomplished author whose work spans multiple genres:
- Multiple award winner including two Carol Awards
- ECPA Gold Medallion nominee
- Christie Award nominee
- Writer of the Year from Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference
- Host of “The Tricia Goyer Show” and co-host of “The Daily Bible Podcast”
- Homeschooling mother of 10 and grandmother of 4
“Breath of Bones”: Where History Meets Fantasy
“In Jewish legends, there’s something called the Golem… The premise is what if during World War II, they try to resurrect the Golem to protect the Jewish people from the Nazis.”
This unique collaboration between Tricia and her son Nathan blends:
- World War II historical fiction
- Jewish folklore
- Steampunk elements
- Real historical events and newspaper clippings
The Writing Process
Writing “Breath of Bones” was truly a family affair:
“I will stick to the historical stuff… And Nathan is a lot of the action”
Key Themes
Divine Purpose
“The overall theme is like we are created for a purpose… It really is trusting the creator and how he created things even when we don’t understand.”
Personal Worth
“We don’t have to act to earn something. We don’t have to act to live up to something or get someone’s attention. But God does have good plans and purposes for us that we need to step into.”
Historical Impact
Tricia’s extensive research and personal experiences in Prague bring authenticity to the story:
“Prague was never bombed during the war. So all the ancient things are still there… There’s places when I research, I’m like, ‘Oh, I’ve walked by that. I didn’t know this thing happened.'”
Connect with Tricia Goyer
Find Tricia and her work at:
- Website: TriciaGoyer.com
- Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok
- Look for “Breath of Bones” and its sequel (coming June 2025)
For more clean YA book recommendations, tune in to Read Clean YA with C.J. Milacci.
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Tricia Goyer
Author
Author. Speaker. Podcaster. Homeschooling Mom.
Tricia Goyer, a passionate writer fueled by her love for God, family, and community, has authored over 90 books, spanning accurate historical fiction and inspiring nonfiction on family and parenting.
About Your Host
Award-winning author CJ Milacci writes stories for teens and young adults with heart-pounding action and hope. As the podcast host for Read Clean YA with CJ, she loves talking about books and the deeper themes woven into the pages of each novel. She’s passionate about crafting stories of good overcoming evil, finding hope in the midst of seemingly hopeless circumstances, and true acceptance.
Always willing to get real about hard issues, C.J. also enjoys the cheesiest of puns. She chats about writing, her faith, bubble tea, and other fun adventures online (@cjmilacci) and at cjmilacci.com.
CJ Milacci is the award-winning author of The Talionis Series, and she writes stories for teens and young adults with heart-pounding action and hope. As a referee, she’s always relearning the hard lesson that it’s impossible to make everyone happy, and she’s discovered that stories can be found anywhere, even on a lacrosse field. She’s passionate about crafting stories of good overcoming evil, finding hope in the midst of seemingly hopeless circumstances, and true acceptance.
Recruit of Talionis, Book 1
A teen with a dark past. A secret military force that kidnaps new soldiers. Can she survive as a Recruit of Talionis?
Fugitive of Talionis, Book 2
They kidnapped her. Trained her. And now they’re hunting her.
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