Ep 145: Living and Writing in Portugal with Author Jeannine Johnson Maia
Meet Jeannine Johnson Maia—an author, explorer, and dreamer whose international adventures and deep appreciation for history infuse every page of her writing. Jeannine’s journey is as international as her novels—growing up in Virginia, teaching in France, studying in Italy, years spent reporting in Brussels, and finally, discovering “home” in Porto, Portugal. Her words bring history to life and illuminate hidden corners of Europe, making you feel like a traveler even from your favorite reading spot.
Becki and Jeannine dive into the origins of her latest book, “The Filigree Master’s Apprentice,” set against the historic backdrop of Porto and its iconic bridges. Inspired by Porto’s rich tradition of filigree jewelry and the towering presence of Eiffel’s bridge, the novel is a tapestry of 19th-century urban life—and the personal journeys of those swept up in the city’s changes.
Are you ready for another literary escape? Let’s go!
Want to support me & my podcast? I’d love for you to Buy me a coffee!
Meet Jeannine Johnson Maia
Before moving to Portugal, Jeannine worked as a journalist in Belgium and Washington, D.C. and served as press specialist in the U.S. Mission to the European Union in Brussels. She studied international relations in the United States and Italy, taught English in France, and lived in Cape Verde. Jeannine particularly appreciates historical themes and is always searching for the stories behind the story. She loves Ted Talks and has decided that walks by the sea are the best form of therapy. She is the author of two historical novels that take place in Portugal: Rossio Square N.º 59 and The Filigree Master’s Apprentice (O Rapaz do Douro). She lives in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Listen to Episode 145 Here
A Chat with Author Jeannine Johnson Maia
In This Episode
We had so much fun chatting with Jeannine and here are some of the things we talked about:
- Her website tagline
- Her international life experiences
- Doing historical research
- Finding a place and time inspires her books
- Doing the Porto Bridge Climb
- Choosing 1877 Porto as a subject
- Making videos of the book locations
- Trying to join a local writing club
- Gilded churches of Portugal
- When characters have a mind of their own
- Her current book in progress is a follow up to Rosio Square
- Going to TEDx talks
Books Mentioned in this Episode
The Filigree Master’s Apprentice
Rossio Square N.°59
Connect with the Author
Jeannine would love to hear from you! Here’s how you can keep in touch with her:
Jeannine Johnson Maia’s Video Tours of Porto
Jeannine has filmed several videos showing locations from her books! Here’s the first video for A Filigree Master’s Apprentice. Be sure to check out the whole book’s playlist.
Here are 3 ways we keep up with our favorite novels and what’s coming out each month:
- Join Audible Premium Plus and get two free books. You’ll be able to listen to old favorites or new titles each month.
- And, you can try Kindle Unlimited Membership Plan for free for one month. You can find all the new books coming out each month.
- This is one of my favorites. With your Amazon Prime membership, you have access to their Amazon First Reads each month. One free, new book at the beginning of each month! Not a member? Sign up now and get one month FREE!
Let’s Keep in Touch
Connect with Becki
Follow me on social to stay up-to-date on the book club and my author news.
@Becki Lee Author on Instagram
Sign up for my newsletter
Sign up for book club!
Or CLICK HERE to sign up
