"The Pressing Stones" Author Andrea van de Loo on the Brown Posey Press 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

"The Pressing Stones" Author Andrea van de Loo on the Brown Posey Press Show

April 19, 2026

0:00 | 57:30

Andrea van de Loo has lived a life with many experiences and transformations. In a series of short chapters, Andrea brings out her more than 80 years of human experience in "The Pressing Stones: The Healing Journey of a Nazi's Daughter."

Andrea's early life in the Netherlands during the Second World War is recounted, and in particular, that of her father. He joins the SS in an act of self-preservation. Convicted of war crimes, he serves time in prison and a mental institution. Unable to deal with her early trauma, she lives the first half of her life dissociated from her innermost feelings.

Also documented are travels to Paris and later to India, where Andrea meets the Mother, the spiritual companion of Sri Aurobindo, and lives at the experimental community She inspired, Auroville. Andrea's experiences in her ongoing search for self lead her to California, and her long relationship with a shaman, Hara Ra.

All through this book, Andrea discusses her psychological journey, her struggles, her process of grief, and also the past of her father. Available through Untimely Books, The Pressing Stones is a remarkable, honest, and unapologetic memoir.

Andrea van de Loo lives in Santa Cruz, California.