Confessions of a Book Collector: Recent Episodes
Goldsboro Books
Book collectors and literary enthusiasts unite in first-of-it’s-kind podcast. Goldsboro Book’s Managing Director and Co-Founder, David Headley an award-winning bookseller and renowned literary agent, explores all aspects of publishing and book collecting, interviewing bestselling and upcoming authors, whilst sharing his own insights on book investing and the most inspiring reads to add to your collection.
With thousands of new books published every year, how do you decide what’s actually worth reading?
In this episode, Goldsboro Books co-founder and literary agent David Headley does the choosing for you, sharing 12 new and upcoming books that have caught his attention. From gripping crime and clever thrillers to ambitious debuts, historical fiction and unforgettable stories from some of the biggest names in publishing right now.
Whether you’re looking for your next page-turner, want to discover a brilliant new voice or simply need some inspiration for your reading pile, there should be something here to tempt you.
The only question is: how many will end up on your TBR pile?
Send Me Your Book Confessions — share your favourite books, collecting stories, questions and reactions to episodes.
In this special episode, we take you inside this year’s Capital Crime Festival with five brilliant panel discussions featuring some of the biggest names in crime and thriller writing.
From 2mins 15s
The Rebels Behind The Hero: see Lee Child and Andrew Child in conversation with Stig Abell about building and breaking the rules of crime fiction as they celebrate 31 books with Jack Reacher.
From 18mins 37s
One of the family: Closed circles and amateur sleuths, the dark yet entertaining draw of terrible things happening to ordinary people with Janice Hallett and Jeremy Vine in conversation with Mark Edwards about the danger lurking beneath seemingly idyllic locations and creating high-stakes thrillers that race against time..
From 27mins 55s
Building A Legacy: David Headley interviews Jeffrey Archer in celebration of his 50 year career as an author and his timeless influence on the next generation of writers, readers and booksellers. Special edition copies of Jeffrey's latest book Adam & Eve are available now at Goldsboro Books.
From 47 mins 35
Closed Communities and Secrets That Fester. From insular parishes to prized garden plots, isolated coastlines to divided city streets, Jane Casey, Liz Nugent & Ardal O’Hanlon join Brian McGilloway to uncover why Ireland’s closed communities make the perfect breeding ground for crime fiction.
From 1hr 7m
Possibly our funniest panel of the weekend: From Scene to Sentence: Rob Parker, Nadine Matheson and T M Payne in conversation with Lisa Howells about the versatility of the procedural crime novel.
Early bird tickets for Capital Crime 2027 are selling fast and on sale now.
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What makes fear contagious? Why do we cling to ritual? And can we ever really trust our memories?
Bestselling author and Capital Crime Festival Genre-Bending Book of the Year winner Erin Kelly joins David Headley for one of our most intriguing conversations yet.
Together they discuss the power of collective belief, how rituals give us a sense of control, the books that changed Erin, and the storytelling techniques behind some of today's smartest psychological suspense novels. Aspiring writers won't want to miss Erin's candid advice on plotting twists, dissecting your favourite novels and the writing techniques she's honed over her long career.
They also delve into Erin's new gothic thriller, The Night Stairs. A haunting tale of Catholic school myths, mass hysteria and the secrets we carry with us long after adolescence.
Whether you're a reader, writer or simply curious about why people behave the way they do, this is an episode that will stay with you.
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Is anyone ever truly a villain?
Stephanie Bramwell-Lawes has spent nearly two decades helping other authors find their readers. This year, it's finally her turn.
In this episode, David sits down with Stephanie to explore the darker side of Victorian England – a world where women could be institutionalised for almost anything and dangerous secrets had devastating consequences.
Inspired by her home in a former Victorian asylum, Stephanie discusses the real history behind her debut Thornby Manor, the enduring appeal of gothic fiction, and why she believes human nature is far more complicated than heroes and villains.
Plus, she shares what it was really like going from publishing professional to debut author, navigating rejection, finding an agent, and experiencing the submission process from the other side for the very first time.
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Award-winning journalist and novelist Saima Mir joins David Headley to talk about crime, justice, identity and the experiences that shaped her bestselling Jia Khan series.
Drawing on her years reporting from courtrooms and covering the aftermath of the Bradford riots, Saima reflects on what happens when communities lose faith in the institutions meant to protect them, and why she has always been interested in the forces that push people towards the choices they make.
She also discusses code-switching and the pressure to be “authentic”, creating a British Pakistani female crime boss in a patriarchal world, and why Bradford became such a powerful presence in her fiction. Plus, Saima is refreshingly candid about the realities of earning a living as a novelist, publishing’s reluctance to talk about money, and why she believes storytelling matters more than ever in the age of AI.
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Recorded live at Capital Crime Festival 2026, David Headley is joined on stage by one of Britain's most celebrated crime writers, Clare Mackintosh.
With the release of her latest thriller, It's Not What You Think, Clare takes audiences behind the scenes, revealing how she carefully constructs twists, plants misdirection and plans every emotional beat of a reader's journey.
Together they discuss why human psychology matters more than crime itself, the challenge of writing politically charged fiction, how her years as a police officer continue to shape her novels, and the pressure of following up bestselling books that readers have come to expect the impossible from.
From plotting "bookish whiplash" to balancing suspense with humour, this is a fascinating conversation about the craft of storytelling with one of the genre's finest writers.
2027 early bird tickets for Capital Crime Festival are on sale for a limited time at www.capitalcrime.org/tickets
And you can buy signed copies of Clare's latest thriller, It's Not What You Think at Goldsboro Books.
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In this deeply personal conversation, 90's pop idol Anthony Kavanagh (known as Kavana) joins David Headley to go beyond the headlines of Pop Scars and explore the writing journey itself. Learning how vulnerability became his greatest strength on the page, Anthony reflects on the unexpected challenges of revisiting his past.
They discuss writing through addiction and grief, why humour was essential when tackling life's darkest moments, the chapter he almost couldn't write, and how putting his story into words changed the way he viewed his younger self.
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In this episode, David Headley sits down with bestselling thriller writer, former British diplomat and clinical psychologist Chris Merritt to explore the remarkable experiences behind his new spy thriller, Octagon.
From living through rocket attacks in Iraq and navigating the tensions of Jerusalem, to treating trauma and PTSD in the NHS, Chris reveals how real-world conflict, psychology and intelligence work have influenced his writing.
They discuss nuclear terrorism, the secrets of crafting believable spies, why trauma is fundamentally about storytelling, and how Chris transformed a career spanning diplomacy and psychology into one of the year's most ambitious thriller series.
Plus, Chris shares the books that inspired him, the thriller he considers close to perfect, and why readers can't seem to stop turning the pages of Octagon.
Secure signed copies of Octagon from when Chris visited the bookshop to record this episode.
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Lucy Vine has spent years making readers laugh with bestselling rom-coms. But under the pen name Elly Vine, she's now embracing murder and a very different kind of female rage.
In this episode of Confessions of a Book Collector, Lucy talks about why so many women are drawn to crime fiction, the surprising link between humour and suspense, and how The Lottery Winners Club was inspired by the idea that women aren't always allowed to express anger openly.
We also explore the challenge of writing under two names at once, her obsession with twists and red herrings, the books that terrified her as a child, and the strange reality of being nine books into a writing career while still feeling convinced you'll never finish the next one.
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Crime writer Chris McDonald joins Confessions of a Book Collector to discuss his new private investigator novel, The Wrong Man, and why readers remember how a book made them feel long after they've forgotten the plot.
Chris shares how a chance conversation on a Manchester football pitch convinced him that ordinary people could become authors, why he secretly wrote his first novel without telling anyone, and how an image of a body on an ice rink stayed in his head for a decade before becoming a book.
The conversation explores the enduring appeal of fictional detectives, the influence of American noir, building a crime festival from scratch with Stockport Noir, and how music shaped both his writing and his reading life.
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Bestselling author Sarah Vaughan joins David Headley on Confessions of a Book Collector to discuss power, privilege, politics, morally difficult characters and the emotional truths hidden beneath public lives.
From her years as a political journalist during the Blair era to the explosive success of Anatomy of a Scandal and its Netflix adaptation, Sarah reflects on the strange timing that turned the novel into a cultural phenomenon.
David and Sarah also explore why “nice” characters rarely make compelling fiction, the books that shaped her as a reader and writer and why she’s fascinated by characters under pressure.
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In this episode, David reflects on one of the greatest pleasures of reading: discovering a remarkable book before the rest of the world catches up.
David also shares some of the upcoming and recently published novels he’s most excited about, including literary fiction, crime, fantasy and speculative fiction that readers will soon be pressing into each other’s hands with the words: “You have to read this.”
Listen now.
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Go behind the scenes of this year’s Capital Crime Festival as David sits down with Festival Director Lizzie Curle to uncover what it really takes to create London’s biggest celebration of crime and thriller fiction.
From programming standout events and welcoming bestselling authors to building the unique atmosphere readers return for year after year, Lizzie shares an insider’s look at the festival, a few exclusives, and the events she’s most excited for this June. Plus, why the crime and thriller community continues to be one of the most passionate and welcoming worlds in books.
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We’re joined by Hallie Rubenhold, bestselling author behind The Five and Story of a Murder, and a writer who has reshaped how we think about some of history’s most infamous crimes. Known for shifting the focus away from sensationalised killers and back onto the lives of overlooked victims, Hallie explores what happens when we start questioning the stories we’ve always accepted as truth.
We talk about the danger of “campfire retellings” in true crime, why history is often built on incomplete or biased perspectives, and how context can completely transform a narrative. Hallie shares what drove her to reclaim the stories of the women linked to Jack the Ripper, why she avoids focusing on the killer entirely, and how her latest work continues to challenge the way crime — and truth — are constructed.
Send Me Your Book Confessions — share your favourite books, collecting stories, questions and reactions to episodes.
Tom Rob Smith joins Confessions of a Book Collector to talk about writing a love story that doesn’t start at the beginning.
Best known for Child 44, Tom has spent much of his career writing high-stakes, high-tension stories. But with his new novel, Twenty Years Together, he turns to something different: what happens when a relationship has already been built. This conversation centres on a question that sits at the heart of the book: do we actually want the future to look like the past?
We also get into the reality of success after Child 44, why it doesn’t quite land the way you expect, and the difference between writing something “well” and writing something that actually means something to you.
Secure a signed copy of Twenty Years Together at Goldsboro Books whilst stocks last.
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David Headley sits down with multi-award-winning crime author David Goodman to talk about A Reluctant Spy, the breakout thriller that launched the Goldsboro Crime Collective, and the years of writing that came before it.
From Edinburgh to espionage, David shares how a lifelong love of sci-fi and spy fiction collided to create Jamie Tulloch and the brilliantly inventive “Legends Program.” They dive into writing under pressure (or avoiding it entirely), the reality of sudden success, and what happens when book two (and three!) are already in motion.
Plus: the realities of publishing, blurbs, and why great stories aren’t bound by genre.
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Jennie Godfrey returns as a champion of new voices, discussing Goldsboro’s Fresh Ink subscription and this month’s standout pick Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke, a novel she knew would be “huge” from the very first pages,
Following the remarkable success of The List of Suspicious Things, Jennie reflects on the reality of becoming a Sunday Times bestseller, the pressure of writing a second novel, and why success doesn’t always feel the way you expect it to.
David and Jennie explore second book syndrome, learning to celebrate the moment, and the lasting impact readers can have on a writer’s journey.
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David sits down with bestselling author Lottie Moggach to discuss her fourth novel, Mrs Pearcey, a story rooted in a real Victorian murder that took place in her own grandmother’s kitchen in Camden.
Lottie shares how the case captured her imagination for years, from the shocking details of the crime to the way it was reported in the press at the time. Rather than stepping inside the mind of the killer, she chose to explore the world around her, shining a light on the birth of sensationalist journalism and the public’s growing appetite for true crime.
Lottie talks about the blurred lines between fact and fiction, the challenges of writing historical crime, growing up in a family of writers, and how living with a story for years can shape the final novel.
Send Me Your Book Confessions — share your favourite books, collecting stories, questions and reactions to episodes.
This week on Confessions of a Book Collector, we’re joined by the brilliant Francis Spufford to talk about his genre-bending new novel set in Blitz-era London.
Blending history with fantasy, Francis explores a city under pressure, where bombs fall, angels appear, and time-travelling fascists threaten the fragile course of history. At the heart of it all is Iris, a fiercely ambitious and refreshingly modern heroine navigating a world in flux.
We dive into why the Blitz remains such a powerful setting, how small moments can shape the fate of history, and why writing fantasy can sometimes reveal deeper truths than realism. Francis also shares his journey from non-fiction to fiction, his love of story-driven writing, and the literary influences that shaped him, from C. S. Lewis to J. R. R. Tolkien.
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Bestselling author and The Traitors icon Harriet Tyce joins us to talk about her latest instant Sunday Times bestseller, Witch Trial, a chilling courtroom thriller she insists is best read with the lights on. Harriet takes us inside the story behind the book, from juries and modern-day witchcraft to the unsettling question at its core: who is really telling the truth?
We explore what draws her to themes of power, truth and deception, the unexpected parallels between fiction and real life, and how her own experiences, from law to reality TV, have shaped her writing.It’s also an honest look at the realities of being a bestselling author: the pressure, the self-doubt, and the process of learning to trust your own voice.
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In our first episode of series 6, we welcome architect, TV presenter and soon-to-be bookshop owner, George Clarke.
George is best known for George Clark's Amazing Spaces and The Restoration Man, but long before the television cameras and the buildings, George was a boy growing up in Sunderland and who discovered the power of books. That love of reading has stayed with him, so much so, that he is now returning to his home city to create a new cultural bookshop.
George talks about how the buildings he walks in tell their own stories, the books that stayed with him, and how one experience in a bookshop changed the course of his life.
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In our sixth series of Confessions of a Book Collector, David sits down with more remarkable writers and storytellers whose lives have been shaped by books in very different ways.
In this short teaser, discover who’ll be joining him for conversations about the stories that changed them.
If you love books, stories and the people behind them, join us for the new series every Saturday.
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This episode is a pause.
A look back at the books and conversations that shaped 2025.
A look ahead to a bold, uncomfortable, exciting year in reading.
And a reminder that five minutes a day is enough.
Without books, the world gets smaller. With them, it stays human.
I’ll be back in the spring.
Until then — GO ALL IN.
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What if the magic of books was literally lethal? In this episode of Confessions of a Book Collector, David Headley sits down with Sunday Times bestselling author Georgia Summers to talk deadly ink magic and magical bookshops. We explore her latest novel The Bookshop Below, a story where book thievery, secret societies and rival booksellers collide, and where owning the wrong shop can get you killed.
Georgia also reflects on her journey through every layer of the book world, bookseller, librarian, editor, publisher, and now bestselling novelist, and why the magic of bookshops has never worn off.
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David Headley sits down with Philippa Gregory, the undisputed queen of historical fiction, to discuss The Berlin Traitor and the woman history loves to hate: Jane Boleyn.
Drawing on new scholarship and decades of obsession, she reframes Jane not as a salacious villain, but as a brilliant survivor navigating the lethal politics of Henry VIII’s court.
Philippa reflects on revisionist history, feminism, and why women in the past have been flattened into stereotypes by male historians. She reveals the extraordinary moment that reshaped her novel and explores how early reading and libraries shaped her own life from childhood.
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David Headley is joined by historical fiction titan, Bernard Cornwell OBE. From the enduring presence of Richard Sharpe to the creation of The Last Kingdom, Bernard reflects on how history and curiosity have shaped his writing life.
Bernard opens up about why Sharpe still speaks to him after forty years, the challenge of writing around real history, and how a planned ending collapsed. From book collecting to acting on stage, enjoy this rare, personal insight into one of Britain’s most beloved historical novelists.
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After nearly a decade away from writing novels, Joe Hill returned this year with King Sorrow, a bold, ferocious, genre-blurring epic that fuses horror, high fantasy, dark academia, rare books, and a Faustian bargain with devastating consequences.
In this conversation, Joe joins David Headley to talk about writing a 900-page novel that never lets up, why big books have to move fast, and how six friends summoning a dragon becomes a story about power, complicity, and the stories we choose to live with. Along the way, they explore books bound in human skin, libraries as battlegrounds, the moral cost of comfort, and why genre labels matter far less than telling a great story. Plus, Joe reveals a major exclusive… only on Confessions of a Book Collector.
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David Headley sits down with bestselling author Pierce Brown for a conversation that spans rejection, resilience, world-building, and rare books.
Pierce reflects on the years before Red Rising (when more than 130 agents turned him down) and how a moment of creative risk helped change everything. He also shares the unexpected moment of inspiration that sparked the tone of Red Rising and what’s next for Darrow.
A warm, candid conversation full of inspiration for readers, writers, and collectors alike.
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BBC Presenter and Chief International Correspondent, Lyse Doucet, shares the remarkable inspiration and writing process for her new book The Finest Hotel in Kabul, a vivid, human history of Afghanistan told through the people who worked inside its most iconic hotel.
They explore how a single building became a witness to decades of hope, heartbreak and resilience, and why the everyday lives of waiters, chefs and housekeepers can reveal more about a country than any headline.
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Former deputy editor of the Independent on Sunday, James Hanning, takes us behind the scenes of The Bookseller of Hay, his immersive portrait of Richard Booth, the man whose eccentric brilliance (and spectacular unruliness!) turned Hay-on-Wye into a world-famous literary destination.
We talk about Booth’s larger-than-life personality, his love–hate relationship with the Hay Festival, his spectacular mischief, and the contradictions that made him both impossible and irresistible. James also shares how his upbringing and his instinct for “getting to the bottom of things” shaped this book and career.
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In this episode of Confessions of a Book Collector, David sits down with acclaimed novelist, journalist and broadcaster Sebastian Faulks to explore the restless creative energy that drives his work.
Sebastian discusses his latest release, Fires Which Burned Brightly: A Life in Progress, a collection of essays born from his lifelong compulsion to write.
From the childhood books that first sparked his imagination to the literary heroes and signed first editions he treasures today, this is an honest look at the writer behind the words.
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She’s the biggest female voice in fiction right now, and a bestselling author of more than 20 novels, we’re delighted to share this brilliant interview with Kristin Hannah.
From the remarkable way she writes her books to revealing a major exclusive - we hope you’ll enjoy listening to this episode as much as we enjoyed making it.
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This episode opens with a reflection on the newly launched Go All In campaign, part of the National Year of Reading 2026, a nationwide push to get Britain reading for pleasure again. Backed by the National Literacy Trust and the Department for Education, the initiative aims to reignite our love of books at a time when fewer children and teenagers are reading for fun.
From there, we turn to someone who has spent a lifetime thinking about why books matter. Ian Patterson, poet, translator, academic, and author of Books: A Manifesto or How to Build a Library, joins to reflect on what it means to live among books. From parting with his 6,000 volume library to rediscovering the emotional and intellectual worlds that books hold, Ian speaks with warmth, wit and deep humanity about why reading is not a luxury, but a way of being alive.
Together, we explore the promise each book holds and why, even in a digital age, our shelves might just be the truest mirrors of who we are.
Send Me Your Book Confessions — share your favourite books, collecting stories, questions and reactions to episodes.
In this special episode of Confessions of a Book Collector, David sits down with the brilliant actor and author Richard Armitage, a true bibliophile whose life has always been shaped by story.
We talk about his new novel The Cut, and how childhood memories and early experiences helped inspire it. Richard reflects on reading aloud as part of his creative process, the rhythm of language he learned from music and Shakespeare, and the emotional truth he searches for in every line. From The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe to Dostoevsky, from The Shining to The Lord of the Rings, this is a conversation about the books that built him.
Send Me Your Book Confessions — share your favourite books, collecting stories, questions and reactions to episodes.
We’re back with our biggest series yet! In this premiere episode, David reveals the remarkable guests lined up for Series 5 and shines a light on three standout novels from this summer, books that have already secured a place on his “best of the year” list.
These are stories you won’t want to miss - listen now and discover your next great read.
And get special editions of all the incredible books featured, right here.
Confessions of a Book Collector returns soon for its fifth (and most thrilling!) series. Tune in for a first look at the legendary authors, collectors, and surprise guests who’ll be sharing their stories.
We close this series of Confessions of a Book Collector with a sparkling conversation with one of Britain’s best-loved storytellers, Adele Parks MBE.
Over the past 25 years, Adele has written 25 novels spanning romance, historical fiction, family drama and psychological thrillers - and she’s still brimming with ideas. In this episode, Adele reflects on her extraordinary career, the nerves and excitement that come with every new book, and the unwavering support that’s helped her along the way.
She also gives us a first look at her brand-new novel Our Beautiful Mess - our Crime Collective Book Club pick for September - a gripping family drama full of secrets, twists and danger.
A joyful, energised finale to the series, celebrating a writer at the very top of her game.
From stage to page, murder-mystery author Jamie West has cracked the code to self-publishing success. His Murder at the Matinee was shortlisted for the 2025 CWA Whodunnit Dagger Award, and his novels have climbed the Amazon bestseller charts.
By night, Jamie works backstage on some of London’s biggest West End shows. By day, he’s built a thriving career as a self-published author.
From shaping his covers and marketing campaigns to building a loyal readership, Jamie explains why he chose the indie route over traditional publishing, and shares his advice for anyone wishing to take the same path.
In this uplifting episode, David sits down with Florence Knapp, author of one of 2025’s biggest debut novels, The Names.
Together they explore how the smallest shifts in your routine and the most ordinary decisions can alter the entire course of your life.
Listen now, to this truly joyful episode.
From touring Europe as a musician, to a 12 year career in publishing working with some of the world’s biggest authors - Hattie William’s is now a celebrated debut author whose novel Bittersweet has secured a six figure deal with Orion Fiction.
Set in the heady, complex world of London publishing, Bittersweet explores a toxic age-gap relationship, the messy beauty of female friendship, and the hidden wounds that shape our choices.
Hattie opens up about how the story and characters arrived, and her history as a reader. We discuss everything from Ted Hughes and Sylvia Plath to friendship, grief, ambition, and emotional dependency - plus the unexpected joy of writing strong, surprising friendships.
If you’ve ever wondered how a book club works, and how the books are chosen, then this is for you.
In this special episode, David turns the page back to where it all began 20 years ago, from PREM1ER’s humble origins to the powerhouse book collecting community it is now.
Find out how it all started, why it’s so popular with readers and revisit some of the standout titles that have shaped its story - from the very first pick to recent international bestsellers.
What happens when a brand strategist discovers they can craft award-winning novels? International bestselling author Lex Noteboom joins David to share his incredible journey from his science fiction podcast The Deca Tapes (which landed him multiple book deals in the UK and US) to creating his latest novel, The Man with a Thousand Faces.
Lex reveals his intense world-building writing process, including creating an entire fictional country with its own political systems and maps. Discover when he first realised he could be an author, his biggest fiction influences, and his unique approach to writing bestselling novels.
In this episode we speak to international bestselling author, Will Carver, known for his dark, genre-defying thrillers. Will has been described as ‘arguably the most original writer in Britain’, and if you’ve read his work, you’ll understand why. He’s written mind-bending novels including Good Samaritans, Nothing Important Happened Today and many more, which blend gritty crime, sharp satire and physiological suspense.
Our conversation explores Will’s highly anticipated new novel Kill Them With Kindness, a dark, funny and speculative thriller described as ‘widely original’ and ‘slightly bonkers'. We go behind the scenes to uncover how he creates his mould-breaking thrillers, and take a peek at his personal book collection that’s shaped his writing.
In this episode of Confessions of a Book Collector, David Headley sits down with publishing trailblazer and founder of Orenda Books, Karen Sullivan. Celebrating ten years of her fiercely independent publishing house, Karen shares the story behind Orenda’s rise. From championing fiction in translation, to building a loyal community of readers and authors. Expect candid chat about the challenges facing publishers today, the risk and reward of translated fiction, why branding matters, and what makes a book truly stand out in a crowded market.
In this episode of Confessions of a Book Collector, David Headley sits down with the wildly talented Beth Lewis to explore her stunning new novel, The Rush - a gripping historical crime thriller set during the Yukon Gold Rush of 1898.
Beth shares what drew her to this icy, lawless frontier and why she chose to spotlight the extraordinary women who braved it.
From real-life inspiration and wild west research (including actual gold panning!) to the craft of building unforgettable characters, Beth opens up about her creative process, queer representation in fiction, and the beauty of writing women who refuse to be overlooked.
Whether you're here for the history, the mystery, or the pure love of books, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
In this episode, David sits down with the inimitable Joe Abercrombie - renowned epic fantasy author and film editor.
With his signature humour and insights, Joe discusses building a reimagined medieval Europe, creating complex characters (such as his irresistible vampire, badass librarian and undead knight), whilst sharing the inspiration and journey behind his gripping new trilogy, The Devils.
British-Nigerian Emmy nominee Remi Kone - known for hit TV shows like Killing Eve and Spooks - joins us to talk about her leap from the screen to the page. In this intriguing episode, Remi explores her love of reading and top book recommendations (possibly the most we've ever had on an episode!), and takes us behind the scenes of her breathtaking debut crime thriller, Innocent Guilt.
Find out what happens when an earth shattering identity crisis takes you from promoting other people’s books, to writing your own.
In this episode, David interviews Georgia Leighton, a senior publishing marketing manager turned debut fantasy author.
Discover more about her new novel Spellbound: an enchanting new fantasy and feminist retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty fairy tale.
Author Robert Rutherford — master of dilemma novels — explores his terrific, cinematic new thriller, The Missing Hour.
Find out how Robert came up with such a unique concept, as he shares his honest journey into becoming a crime author, including his route to publication, the challenges along the way, and what author life is like post-publication.
A delightful listen and a fascinating glimpse inside the mind of a crime writer.
In this episode, we’re joined by the multi-talented Barnaby Martin. Composer, video essayist, chemistry teacher… and now, acclaimed dystopian thriller author.
We dive into his gripping new novel, set in a near-future world transformed by a mysterious force known as the Sound Field. At its heart? A hauntingly original story of parenting through an unimaginable apocalypse.
Barnaby’s path to becoming a writer is anything but ordinary. A self-taught, award winning composer, he brings a fresh, outsider energy to the thriller genre - along with a creative perspective shaped by science, sound, and storytelling.
Crime fiction addicts, this one’s for you. In this episode of Confessions of a Book Collector, we’re diving into the hottest and most highly anticipated crime novels of 2025. Books that are guaranteed to dominate the bestseller lists, keep you glued to your reading seat and completely destroy your sleep schedule…
Listen now, to reveal the top crime novels of 2025.
In this episode, David sits down with the brilliant Clare Leslie Hall to celebrate the launch of Broken Country—hailed as the year’s most addictive love story. Clare shares how the novel’s unforgettable characters first appeared in her mind, the inspiration behind its intense love triangle, and the highs and lows of bringing a book to life. A must-listen for book lovers, aspiring writers, and anyone who craves a story that lingers long after the last page.
What happens when an author’s voice lingers long after the story ends? In this episode, we dive into the brilliant mind of Nnedi Okorafor, the award-winning pioneer of Africanfuturism, as she challenges the concept of authorial control in her provocative new novel, Death of the Author. Known for blending African mythology, science fiction, and deeply personal narratives, Okorafor’s latest work isn’t just a book—it’s a reckoning.
Essie Fox is an author who weaves rich, gothic tales inspired by the Victorian era. Her novels are brimming with history, mystery and just the right touch of the macabre. From her debut book The Somnambulist, to her latest work Dangerous, she transports readers into shadowy atmospheric worlds with dark secrets.
Beyond her own writing she’s also a devoted collector of books.
Join us to get to know the stories behind the stories, in our latest episode.
In this episode, David takes you on a tour of the fascinating world of book collecting and book clubs. David reflects on his personal journey into book collecting, sharing some treasures from his own library, whilst exploring the rich history of this beloved pastime.
From the trailblazers who shaped the publishing world to the evolution of book clubs, we celebrate the art, the joy, and the community of book collecting.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a first time buyer or just someone who loves books - this episode is for you.
2025 is shaping up to be a phenomenal year for storytelling. From heart-pounding thrillers to thought-provoking literary fiction and immersive fantasy worlds, the year ahead promises a stellar lineup of must-read titles.
In the kickoff to series four, David shares a sneak peak of 25 of the most anticipated releases of 2025.
From London trader to bestselling author, Chris Whitaker shares the dramatic twists and turns of his life and how a violent experience led him to embrace writing. Chris, the acclaimed author of novels like Tall Oaks and We Begin At The End, discusses his unique creative process and his highly anticipated upcoming book, All The Colours Of The Dark.
David interviews bestselling author Joanne Harris, discussing her highly anticipated novel, The Moonlight Market.
Joanne, who has penned over 19 novels and is known for huge literary hits such as Chocolat, which was adapted into an Oscar-nominated film, gives us a glimpse into her early life as an author, sharing the inspiration behind some of her most complex characters and writing.
She also reflects on her journey from teacher to published novelist. This episode is not one to miss - listen now.
In the final episode of our Pride Month series, David talks to former BBC journalist and award-winning author AJ West, who shares an open and heartfelt account of his journey to becoming a published novelist. Go behind the scenes of his critically acclaimed debut and uncover the inspiration behind his latest eagerly awaited release, The Betrayal of Thomas True. This episode promises laughter, deep insights, and truly touching moments.
David interviews Dr Layla McCay, Director of Policy at the NHS Confederation, psychiatrist, and author of the recent non fiction hit 'Breaking The Rainbow Ceiling'. Layla shares the challenges facing LGBTQ+ professionals as they navigate their careers and we explore some of her most treasured reads. This is the third episode in our Pride Month series.
Join us in our Pride Month series as David sits down with Stefan, one half of the dynamic duo behind the celebrated travel blog, The Nomadic Boys. Since quitting their jobs and leaving behind their London lives in 2014, Stefan and his partner Sebastien have been on a global journey, sharing their adventures and invaluable insights through their popular blog.
In this episode, Stefan discusses their upcoming debut book, "The Gay Guide to Travelling with Pride: Out In The World." Discover the inspiration behind the book and listen to Stefan's stories about navigating travel in countries where being gay is still taboo or even illegal.
Join us as we launch our Pride Month series with an insightful interview featuring the brilliant Abi Fellows. Recently shortlisted for Agent of the Year at the Bookseller Awards, Abi is dedicated to championing minority voices in the publishing world. Tune in to hear her inspiring journey and invaluable insights into the industry.
Ahead of her appearance at the Capital Crime Festival, David sits down with acclaimed author Kellye Garrett, a US-based expert in crafting compulsive hriller page-turners. Tune in to discover the book that sparked her passion for thriller fiction at the tender age of five, explore her favourite thriller reads, and hear her insightful views on diversity within the genre.
In this interview, David speaks to one of the most important people in books in the UK, the incredible Amanda Ross.
Amanda is the co-founder of Cactus TV, and is behind major book-based campaigns such as Richard & Judy’s Book Club, and the televising The Galaxy National Book Awards and the Crime Thriller Awards.
Amanda has a true passion for books, and has helped to start the career of so many brilliant authors, it was a joy to have her on the show to discuss her experience.
Sam Burr is no stranger to creating a good story. He’s produced some of TV’s most memorable documentaries, such as the BAFTA nominated The Secret Life Of 4 Year Olds. In this delightful interview, we explore Sam’s foray into fiction writing, discovering where the inspiration for his very clever debut novel, The Fellowship Of Puzzlemakers, originated, and of course, we dive into his love of reading and his most treasured books.
We speak to dynamic duo Chris and Jen Sugden, authors of the recent Sunday Times bestselling book, High Voltage, and masterminds behind the critically acclaimed audio drama podcast, Victoriocity.
The duo explain what it takes to create a bestselling book and successful drama podcast, how to create gripping characters and stories that resonate, and share their top underrated authors.
From dealing with dangerous individuals in her policing days to creating compelling crime fiction characters for her new novels, T M Payne is poised to be the new rising star in Crime Fiction.
Listen as we explore her journey from working in the justice system to breaking into the crime fiction scene. Tina also gives us a sneak peak into her highly anticipated new crime novel ‘Long Time Dead’.
In this brilliant conversion, bestselling titan of crime fiction, Mark Billingham, shares his deep-seated passion and history of book collecting, whilst revealing a major exclusive on his latest novel.
Listen as Mark reminisces on unforgettable encounters with literary icons, whilst reflecting on his own journey from a fan attending author signings, to sitting behind the signing table himself as a celebrated author.
See Mark at Capital Crime Festival on Saturday 1st June in London.
An engaging conversation into the intricate world of a publisher editor. Katherine offers an insider’s perspective on the editorial process and the journey of a book from manuscript to a book on a shelf.
We dive deeper into the world of publishing as David interviews former actor turned agent, Emily Glenister. Emily shares her expert advice on how to submit to an agent, where her passion for books originated from and reveals her own unique book collection and treasured gems.
Today’s episode dives into the art of book collecting. David, who’s been collecting signed first edition books ever since he was a young teenager, explores how book collecting has evolved over the decades and shares tips and guidance for starting (or enhancing) your own collection. Plus, get a glimpse into some of David’s most cherished collectables.
Jennie Godfrey’s debut novel, The List Of Suspicious Things is already tipped to be a huge runaway success, so we were delighted to sit down with Jennie ahead of its launch for this incredible interview.
Discover the surprising way the idea behind the book was formed, learn about her career move from businesswoman to author and get an exclusive on her follow up book, already in the works!
Want to receive limited edition copies of highly anticipated books like The List Of Suspicious Things? Find out more about our PREM1ER Book Club.
Join David as he sits down with Capital Crime Festival Director, Lizzie Curle, to unveil the most anticipated crime thrillers of 2024. Lizzie shares her personal favourites and drops exclusive announcements about the upcoming Capital Crime Festival that you simply don’t want to miss!
🔍 Book your early bird tickets now for Capital Crime 2024 at capitalcrime.org
📲 Follow Capital Crime on socials for the latest news and author announcements:
X (formally Twitter): /capitalcrime1
Instagram: @capitalcrime1
Join David Headley, the renowned Literary Agent and Managing Director at Goldsboro Books, on a literary voyage through the standout novels of 2023. David also unveils the must-read books that will define your reading list in 2024. Get ready for a journey into new voices, fresh perspectives, and untold adventures…
Find out more about our Premier special edition book club to get future bestsellers and highly anticipated debut novels delivered to your door each month.
In this fascinating episode, David speaks to the multi-talented Suzie Edge: a medical doctor, TikTok sensation and the bestselling author of ‘Mortal Monarchs’.
They discuss the monarchy, ethical dilemmas tied to scientific body exhumation and where Suzie finds the inspiration for her unique books.
Join us for a captivating episode as we sit down with the extraordinary wordsmith, Anita Frank. In this engaging interview, David delves into the intriguing world of Anita's latest literary masterpiece, "The Good Liars," a tale with enigmatic characters where everyone is hiding something.
Discover why readers are already raving about her story that skilfully keeps them on the edge of their seats until the final page. Explore the essence of Anita's unique writing style as she shares her inspirations and creative process. From her debut steps in storytelling at the tender age of 6 to becoming a luminous figure in the literary realm, Anita's journey as a masterful writer unfolds in our conversation.
Join us in this captivating episode as we delve into the remarkable life of Graham Bartlett, an esteemed former Police Chief who has transformed into a highly acclaimed crime fiction author and a sought-after advisor to crime and TV writers.
Graham reveals the inspiration behind his unique storytelling approach - one that uncovers angles previously unexplored - and shares details on his most recent gripping release, "Force of Hate,”.
Order your signed first edition copy of Force of Hate from Goldsboro Books today.
David speaks to Capital Crime festival director Lizzie Curle, in this exciting announcement.
Find out what’s on at this year’s most anticipated book festival for crime lovers, taking place in London this August 31st to September 2nd.
Haven’t got your tickets yet? After last year’s sell out, we recommend you book early to avoid disappointment. Get your tickets here: https://www.capitalcrime.org
David interviews global bestselling author, Jack Jordan, to discover the inspiration behind his uniquely dark storytelling.
Explore the books that have shaped his journey from childhood to present, how he proved the naysayers wrong and find out more about his latest pule-racing thriller, Conviction.
Plus, David and Jack bond over their shared disdain for the traditional education system, and Jack reveals how he created the brand behind his bestsellers.
Find exclusive signed, first edition copies of Jack's latest book, Conviction at Goldsboro Books.
David talks to award-winning and international bestselling author Rachel Joyce about her journey to publishing The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry and its adaptation to the new movie featuring Jim Broadbent.
On the first anniversary of the #RespectRomFic movement, David speaks to Sara-Jade Virtue, who's aiming to shift the dismissive attitude that Romance genre receives. Sara, who's the Brand Development Director at Simon & Schuster, shares her experience in the publishing industry, from meeting Jackie Collins to how things have changed, plus we discuss some controversial topics that Sara is passion about.
Could you do me a favour? How many times have you been asked this question? Bestselling writing duo, Nicci French, talk about their brilliant new book, which gives us all a stark warning about doing someone a favour...
Plus, find out what inspires them to create their psychological thrillers and how they combine their creative styles to produce their award-winning formula.
Be the first to get your hands on signed, rare and first edition books, sign up to our newsletter at Goldsboro Books.
Award-winning literary agent and Goldsboro Books Managing Director, David Headley, shares 7 incredible new fiction books which he highly recommends, tipped to be potential best sellers and future collectables.
Find out why David recommends adding these brilliant reads to your book collection, and how to get your hands on some of the limited edition copies.
Find rare, signed and first edition books at Goldsboro Books.
Go behind the scenes at Goldsboro’s much loved Sci-Fi and Fantasy Fiction book club, GSFF, as we celebrate its third anniversary. Meet the passionate team behind it and get the exclusive reveal about the upcoming special edition you don’t want to miss.
You don’t need to be a bird enthusiast to enjoy Stephen Moss’ latest book: Ten Birds That Changed The World. In this episode we discuss the book’s captivating journey, showing how birds influence our lives and culture, from ancient civilisations to modern day. Plus we get to know Stephen’s literary journey and how the book came to be.
Order your signed first edition copy of Ten Birds That Changed The World at Goldsboro Books now.
Discover some truly amazing upcoming book releases that we’re excited about, and go behind the scenes at Goldsboro Books with bookshop manager, Rebecca. Plus, find out what can make a signed first edition so valuable and how to distinguish between an authentic signed first edition and a reprint.
View David's supporting articles on what makes a signed first edition valuable and how to distinguish a genuine signed first edition between a reprint.
Goldsboro Books is the leading independent bookstore specialising in signed first edition hardback books.
Special thank you to the brilliant authors mentioned in this episode including:
Alice Wynn , Natasha Brown Bobby Palmer, Laura Shepperson, Stephen Chbosky, Isabella Schuler, Rose Wilding, Bernard Cornwell, Laura Purcell, Tom Hanks, and Marcus Zusak.
In season two of Confessions of a Book Collector, David shares which books, due to be published in 2023, are likely to hit the bestsellers lists, and looks back at the 2022 highlights.
He’ll also be advising how to tell a first edition from a reprint, and why first editions are great long term investment projects. Not to mention some incredible interviews with authors and publishers.
Subscribe now and don’t miss an episode.
Looking for rare and signed first edition books? Discover our unique collection at Goldsboro Books.
Victoria Selman talks about her first standalone novel, TRULY DARKLY DEEPLY, the books she loved as a child and why she writes about serial killers, with her agent David Headley.
Truly Darkly Deeply - Buy Your Copy Here
12-year-old Sophie and her mother, Amelia-Rose, move to London from Massachusetts where they meet the charismatic Matty Melgren, who quickly becomes an intrinsic part of their lives. But as the relationship between the two adults fractures, a serial killer begins targeting young women with a striking resemblance to Amelia-Rose.
When Matty is eventually sent down for multiple murders, questions remain as to his guilt—questions which ultimately destroy both women. Nearly twenty years later, Sophie receives a letter from Battlemouth Prison informing her Matty is dying and wants to meet. It looks like Sophie might finally get the answers she craves.
But will the truth set her free—or bury her deeper?
This week New York Times bestselling author Emma Straub joins David Headley to talk about owning a bookshop, writing and the books that have influenced her.
Buy your signed first edition of 'THIS TIME TOMORROW' here.
Award winning short story writer, Sean Lusk, talks about finding inspiration in travel, historical figures, clockwork automata and books.
Order Sean Lusk's breathtaking debut, 'The Second Sight of Zachery Cloudesley' here.
Listen to bestselling author M W Craven talk about building a series and a brand as an author, buying books out of the back of vans and learn about his connection to Hairy Biker, Dave Myers and lead singer of Iron Maiden, Bruce Dickinson...
'The Botanist' by M W Craven is out now!
Discover an incredible journey to publication, along with the inspiration and books behind Ayanna Lloyd Banwo's wonderful debut, and how she's learning to set 'When We Were Birds' free.
Order your very own stunning, signed, and spray-edged, Goldsboro Books limited edition copy of 'When We Were Birds' now.
Escape to the Golden Age and the world of Dame Agatha Christie with the author and expert who knows her best, John Curran! Listen to David Headley and John Curran talk about ‘nice murders’ and John’s favourite works and go to Agatha reads now!
Pre-order the signed & dated first edition of John's book 'Agatha Christie's Murder in the Making' at Goldsboro Books.
Ever wondered how great crime writers find the inspiration behind their novels? David Fennell shares his biggest inspirations and teases on his upcoming thriller, See No Evil.
Pre-order the signed first edition of See No Evil at Goldsboro Books.
Award-winning author of Blood & Sugar and Daughters Of Night, Laura Shepherd-Robison shares some teasers on her upcoming release, plus the books that have inspired her own writing journey and a character she loved so much, she gave them their own book.
Find rare books and signed first editions at Goldsboro Books.
“The most viscerally moving, powerful novel that I’ve read in a long time. It just deserves to be read.” David Headley interviews New York Times bestselling author, Brian McGilloway, following the release of his much anticipated crime novel, The Empty Room. Brian shares his inspiration behind the new novel, his journey as an author and some secrets about his previous books.
Want to be the first to receive the most exciting, new hardback fiction books, signed by the author? Join Goldsboro's first edition book club: Premier. Each month we curate the best hardback fiction to bring you a genuine page-turner in a beautiful signed first edition.
What's the secret to getting a new book noticed and read by millions? David interviews the renowned publicist Alison Barrow, an award-winning PR Director at Penguin Random House, and a much loved member of the book industry. Alison, who is behind some of the biggest bestselling books in the last 20 years, shares her experience and what it really takes to make a book famous.
David interviews Erin Young, author of eight internationally bestselling novels, to explore her switch from historical fiction to present day thriller, introducing her highly anticipated debut crime novel and Goldsboro exclusive; The Fields.
Pre-order a signed first edition of The Fields now at Goldsboro Books.
One of the best contemporary writers, the inspiring Araminta Hall, shares her journey on becoming an author, her top book confessionals, plus her own family ties with the Titanic which inspired her latest novel, Hidden Depths. Enjoy this spoiler-free episode with renowned host David Headley, owner of Goldsboro Books - the world's leading bookseller of rare and signed first edition books.
Renowned book publicist and Goldsboro Books owner, David Headley, shares which newly published books he thinks will make the Sunday Times bestseller list, plus some captivating upcoming books to watch out for. Find out what books you should add to your collection right now.
Find all of the books recommended in this podcast at Goldsboro Books, the largest collection of signed first editions.
Goldsboro Books co-founder and renowned literary agent, David Headley, interviews internationally bestselling author S. J. Watson on how he writes a bestseller, and does he give us an exclusive… ? Find out more, only on Confessions of a Book Collector.
Interested in first edition books or becoming part of the world's best first edition book club? Discover more at www.goldsborobooks.com
In part one of our inaugural episode, we invite internationally best selling author S.J. Watson, famous for his debut novel Before I Go To Sleep, to interview award-winning bookseller and renowned literary agent, David Headley. From priesthood to bookseller - learn about David's journey and watch out for part two coming soon, where David will be interviewing Steve.
Find out what Goldsboro Book's new podcast, Confessions of a Book Collector, has in store with this exciting introduction from award-winning bookseller and renowned literary agent, David Headley.