Writing Courageous Women into History: Saving Vincent, A Novel of Jo van Gogh (E196)
In today's episode, I am chatting with Joan Fernandez. Joan is a brings to light brilliant women’s courageous deeds in history. She is a former senior marketing executive general partner of the financial powerhouse Edward Jones. In 2018, she retired from a 30+ year career to be a full-time writer. In April 2020, she founded a Historical Fiction affinity group within WFWA that grew from a handful of people to nearly two hundred authors. Her short story, “A Parisian Daughter,” is published in the anthology, Feisty Deeds: Historical Fiction of Daring Women. Her debut novel, Saving Vincent, A Novel of Jo Van Gogh, published in April 2025. Joan calls both St. Louis and Sedona, Arizona home, enjoys foodie meals with her Cuban husband and antics with grandkids.
Episode Highlights:
How Joan’s first career shaped her writing life and the confidence that comes from starting something new after years of expertise.
Applying the skills, discipline, and mindset from a long, successful career to the creative work of writing.
Discovering the story of Jo van Gogh and what inspired Joan to center her debut novel on a woman often overlooked in art history.
The realities of raising a child while running a business—and advocating relentlessly for Vincent van Gogh’s work.
Using personal letters and historical documents as research, including the powerful reminder that “art must touch your soul.”
A book flight focused on characters searching for identity and learning how to live authentically, carrying who they are into every part of life.
Connect with Joan:
Show Notes
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Books and authors mentioned in the episode:
Gift from the Sea by Anne Morrow Lindbergh
Song of Belonging by Michelle St. Romain (coming 04/21/26)
Book Flight
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid
Oona, Out of Order by Marguerite Mortimer
The 2026 Bookish Flights Reading Challenge is here—a simple, nostalgic way to be intentional with your reading. One book per month, with options for individuals and families. Download it at https://www.bookishflights.com/read/2026readingchallenge
