In this episode
Anne-Marie Cannon is joined by author Barbara Stark-Nemon, whose novels span centuries and borders. They dive into Barbara’s newest historical novel, Isabela’s Way, set in Inquisition-era Portugal, Spain, France, and Germany, and explore how history lives on through family memory, travel, and storytelling.

Topics we cover

Isabela’s Way and the history behind it
The Inquisition and why it’s still misunderstood
Embroidery as coded communication and safe passage
Refugee histories and inherited resilience
“Unexpected allies” and resisting black-and-white narratives
Emotional truth vs. historical accuracy
How genealogy and DNA uncover hidden pasts
Writing as an encore career and the path to publication

About Barbara Stark-Nemon
Barbara Stark-Nemon is the author of Isabela’s Way, Even in Darkness, and Hard Cider. A self-taught historian and traveler, her work explores resilience, identity, and survival across turbulent historical moments.

Connect with Barbara

Website: https://www.barbarastarknemon.com
Substack: https://barbarastarknemon.substack.com
Barbara is also available for book clubs (via Zoom or in person when local).

More from Armchair Historians

Show notes include links to everything discussed, ways to support the show, and a free short story downloadintroducing Bedlam, from Anne-Marie Cannon’s forthcoming historical fiction series.
Website: https://www.amcannon.com

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Check out Anne Marie's historical fiction and download free short story: A.M. Cannon website: www.amcannon.com

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Stitching a Safe Passage: Barbara Stark-Nemon on Isabela’s Way