"Carlisle's Molly Pitcher" Author J.M. West on the Sunbury Press Books Show Artwork

BookSpeak Network

Three different shows. One common theme: celebrating the world of books.This podcast network is for readers and writers interested in hearing about awesome new books spanning a wide variety of different genres. Whether you’re hoping to get to know a new author or are in need of some practical writing tips, the BookSpeak Network has you covered.~The first program in the BookSpeak Network is the Sunbury Press Books Show. Hosted by the CEO of indie publisher Sunbury Press Lawrence Knorr, this show consists largely of interviews between the publisher and the authors he takes on at Sunbury Press. Knorr interviews both fiction and nonfiction authors and covers a range of topics from history, sports, biography, and more. This show may air 1-4 times per month.~The second program is called Milford House Mysteries, hosted by mystery and thriller authors Sherry Knowlton and JM (Jody) West. Sherry and JM often discuss the process of writing and publishing mysteries as well as doing interviews with some of the genre’s top authors. Milford House Mysteries hits the airwaves about two times per month. ~Finally, it’s the Brown Posey Press Show! Author Tory Gates interviews authors in the literary fiction and nonfiction genres, and he’s got a special connection with indie presses and indie authors. If you’re in the mood for a deep dive into art and uniqueness in literature, you’re going to find something to love in these conversations. ~Looking for author interviews and writing tips? Go ahead and hit that subscribe button. You’ve got some listening to do.

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"Carlisle's Molly Pitcher" Author J.M. West on the Sunbury Press Books Show

February 07, 2025

The American Revolution has brought us the tale of Molly Pitcher, a woman who took her husband's place in battle and manned the ramrod of a cannon. Based on the historical record, Pitcher is a more fictionalized character, but women did serve in battle. Author J.M. West provides a similar account of the Carlisle, Pennsylvania woman, who, based on the historical record best matched that description, Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley.

Her life story is told in West's book, Carlisle's Molly Pitcher through the Local History Press imprint of Sunbury Press Books. Readers will be familiar with West for her offerings on Sunbury Press, including the award-winning Madam Bessie Jones, Her Life and Times, and the fact-based Carlisle Crime Cases.

West is a Professor Emerita of English Studies at Harrisburg Area Community College-Gettysburg. She has also taught at Messiah University and Shippensburg Universities. West co-hosted the Milford House Mysteries podcast with Sherry Knowlton on the BookSpeak Network for four years. She lives with her husband in Carlisle, PA.