"These Restless Hills" Author Josh Penrod 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.

All Episodes

BookSpeak Network

"These Restless Hills" Author Josh Penrod on the Sunbury Press Books Show

November 14, 2025

Joshua Penrod brings late 19th Century Pennsylvania to life in These Restless Hills. It is the time of the Gilded Age, however, it is anything but that for most of the residents in and around the city of Johnstown in 1889.

Thomas Houghton, a Civil War veteran who has not completely left the conflict behind is an inspector and enforcer for the infamous Coal & Iron Police, who follow the bidding of the corporate barons. Houghton is on the trail of a labor agitator; his pursuit through shantytowns, mills and mines puts him not only at odds with hostile workers, but his own superiors and demanding capitalists. Through the gritty, tough and uncompromising background, the tension rises to an explosive climax.

A native of Johnstown, PA, Dr. Joshua Penrod is a business executive and author, with a Ph.D. in Science and Technology Studies from Virginia Tech. His works include articles and essays published in several journals and periodicals, including the Northern Appalachia Review. His books include Johnstown Industry, Johnstown Waters, and Ethics and Biopower in Neuromarketing.