The Write Way: Recent Episodes

Samuel Elliott

A program founded and hosted by author and interviewer Samuel Elliott, that features a broad and disparate range of writer folk guests, ranging from international best-selling authors, to debut novelists or those as-yet unpublished writers. Regardless of what stage of their career they might be at, all of them are united by a love of writing, as well as having overcome some brutal challenges to get to where they are. This program will discuss not only each guest’s latest and greatest work or project, but also delve into what they’ve faced and conquered along their way to inevitable success. Thanks for your patronage, please be sure to subscribe. You can also find out the program’s news and upcoming guests at: www.instagram.com/thewritewaypodcast www.facebook.com/thewritewaypodcastaustralia

Teacher, podcaster and novelist, Kate Mildenhall, joined me to chat about her latest novel, ‘The Hiding Place’.We talked about: - The idea that started ‘The Hiding Place’ - or rather a real estate advert - and Kate’s own experience with her camping group.- Why some of us romanticise and yearn for a little slice of nature to call our own - from our youths and right through adulthood.- How sensible and intelligent people can so willingly and fully commit to something as dicey as buying up a property with a bunch of friends and family. - Children and their perceptiveness and how parents allow themselves to pretend they don’t see absolutely everything going on.And so much more! Biggest thanks to Kate for talking with me about ‘The Hiding Place’ - get your copy now! Kate, I am so keen to be on a panel with you at the upcoming Newcastle Writers Festival!#podcast #pod #episode #chat #interview #discussion #talk #contemporary #crime #thriller #setting #pageturner #writer #author #novel #writer #writing #author #novel #book #story #contemporary #creative #social #fiction #Australian #chat #discussion #podcast #program #episode #read #crime #thriller #contemporary #psychological #mystery #suspense #social #fiction #Australian #chat #discussion #podcast #program #episode #read #crime #thriller #Australia #setting #noir #mystery #suspense #discussion #podcast #program #episode #read

Writer and fellow podcaster, Madeleine Cleary, dropped in to talk about her debut novel, ‘The Butterfly Women’.Topics discussed included: The origins of ‘The Butterfly Women’ - including Madeleine’s great-great-great grandmother’s story. A pervasive attitude of ‘women remembering their place’ - and how it had impacted all women from all classes (i.e. the gilded cage, was still a cage). The importance of capturing the agency that sex workers had in the era. The problems with ‘primary’ sources of the time written (almost exclusively) by (misogynistic) men. Investigators apathy - how history can oftentimes repeat itself, even 160+ years later. Accepting when your novel isn’t working and the willingness to start all over again - Madeleine’s journey to writing ‘The Butterfly Women’.And a whole bunch more! Thanks heaps to Madeleine for discussing all things ‘The Butterfly Women’ with me - get your copy now!

Author and screenwriter Christian White, joined me to talk about his latest novel, ‘The Long Night’.Topics discussed included: - The suitably spooky origins and scenario that lead to ‘The Long Night’.- Stone Tape Theory and how we are tethered by trauma and stories to certain physical places/spaces.- Seeing the world and a scenario through the eyes of a creative. Em with her horror buff lens, Jodie with her painting. - Horror - the freedom it affords Christian/creatives and how it allows us to tell relatable and realistic stories.- Types of fear explored within the novel - from those typically found within a horror novel (the unknown lurking in the dark, a masked attacker) to those found within normal/everyday lives (male aggression, abused becoming abusers, related intergenerational trauma). - And heaps more! Thanks so much to Christian for talking with me about ‘The Long Night’ and everything else!

Former journalist and writer, Michael Brissenden discussed his latest novel, ‘Dust’ with me on the show. Topics included: - How Dust came to be - its real-world, real location inspiration.- Communities turning on one another during a crisis - how the finger-pointing/blame-shifting can happen so quickly and how factions can form so easily. - The role media and media coverage plays, even in small, local community issues and what lasting, widespread impact it can have.- Forms of self-radicalisation and how they are shown in the novel.- And a ton more! Thanks be to Michael for discussing Dust with me on the show!

Writer, producer, and academic, Seth Robinson, joined me to discuss ‘Unfolded’ - the University of Melbourne’s new podcast that he co-hosts with writer and novelist, Tony Birch.Topics we talked about include: - How ‘Unfolded’ started with one unique idea - bringing a writer’s stories to life with actors - and interviewing the writers about their work and their reaction to this vision of their work. - Collaborative work - how ‘Unfolded’ is a creative community working together to produce something unique - and the positive experiences of that. - The differences in imaginations and interpretations - how writers can be surprised by their own work through its interpretations by other creatives. - How we as individuals can connect so easily, so completely, with audio storytelling.- And heaps more! Thanks very much to Seth for chatting with me about Unfolded on the show. You can listen to all current episodes on Apple podcasts and Spotify. Here’s the Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/0Z8DDtqdQ6QD2dVE88FqQL?si=273e272f0836461b

Writer, editor, actor, Laura McCluskey, joined me to discuss her debut novel, ‘The Wolf Tree’,Topics included: - What inspired ‘The Wolf Tree’ and how it went into crafting the fictional island setting of Eilean Eadar. - Trust in its many forms.- Tradition - what compels an individual and a people to uphold it. - Fear - how it features in different ways and dynamics in the novel. - And a ton more! Thanks heaps to Laura for chatting with me on the show - get your copy of ‘The Wolf Tree’ now!

Bestselling author Dervla McTiernan joined me to discuss her latest Cormac Reilly novel, 'The Unquiet Grave'. We talked about: - Origins of ‘The Unquiet Grave’ and bog bodies! - Returning to writing Cormac Reilly. Is it harder to write with an entirely new protagonist, or a recurring one beloved by fans?- The different examples of familial obligations found throughout the novel.- How is it that we always see the best, or best version in those close to us, even when there’s mounting evidence contradicting that?- And so much more! Thanks muchly to Dervla for chatting with me on the show, be sure to get your copy of ‘The Unquiet Grave’ now!

The first (and likely only) guest for 2025 is novelist Alicia Thompson! She joined me to discuss her second published novel, ‘Ex’.Topics we covered include:- The origins of ‘Ex’.- The freedoms and limitations imposed by writing such a unique novel.- Alicia’s exhaustive research process and how it informs her writing. - Memories, how they can change over time and how they can shape our life.- And plenty more!Huge thanks to Alicia for talking with me on the show. Get your copy of ‘Ex’ now!

Musician, writer and author, Jack Ellis, joined me to talk about his 2nd novel, ‘Home And Other Hiding Places.’ Topics discussed include: - What inspired ‘Home And Other Hiding Places’.- How children's lives are shaped by what they are/aren’t told and how their imagination fills out the rest.- Children taking on the roles of protector and provider for parents.- Writing from a child’s perspective - how it isn’t innately optimistic, but more a story told from someone that hasn’t yet ‘soaked in expectations’.- And so much more!Big thanks to Jack for discussing ‘Home And Other Hiding Places’ with me on the show. Be sure to check out his next EP dropping very soon too!

Writer and novelist, Hayley Scrivenor, dropped in to chat about her second novel, ‘Girl Falling’.Topics include: - The genesis of ‘Girl Falling’ - including the idyllic setting of the Blue Mountains.- The need (and total inability) to know what someone else - someone close to ourselves - is thinking. - How others sometimes, seemingly, know us even better than we do.- Book Two Syndrome - how did Hayley prevail over it? - And so much more!Thanks very much to Hayley for talking all about ‘Girl Falling’ with me on the program - get your copy from the good folks at Pan Macmillan now!!

Writer, podcaster and novelist, Karen Viggers, joined me to discuss her latest novel, ‘Sidelines’.Topics include: - The origins of ‘Sidelines’.- How ultra-competitive parents can be drawn to highly-ranked clubs.- The insatiable at-all-costs need to win that drives some parents and (by extension) their children.- Passion being used as an excuse for toxic behaviour and how some people aren’t even aware of their own behaviour.- And so much more!Thanks heaps to Karen for chatting with me about ‘Sidelines.’

Journalist and novelist, Ali Lowe, joined me to discuss her latest novel, ‘The School Run’.Topics discussed include: - The real-world inspo for ‘The School Run’.- St Ignatius Boys’ School - what such an institution represents to these characters and how they can find themselves willing to do anything - anything at all - in order to secure a spot for their child in such a place. - The similarities between parent and child - how parents can be hard and harsh on their child out of fear that they are seeing mini versions of themselves. - Obligations. How promises and the keeping of them can define and drive characters. - And a ton more!Thanks very much to Ali for talking with me about ‘The School Run’ on the show.

Award-winning journalist and novelist, Michael Brissenden, joined me to talk about his latest crime novel, ‘Smoke’.Topics discussed include: - The origins of ‘Smoke’.- Shifting writing stories set in Australia to the U.S. - the similarities and differences of the two countries and settings.- Journalists - the individuals that frequently risk both life and limb in the pursuit of the truth.- The power of loyalty - and the various versions of loyalty presented throughout the novel. - And lots more!Thank you Michael for chatting with me about all things ‘Smoke’.

Writer and author of 40+ books, Jack Heath, joined me to discuss his latest thriller, ‘Kill Your Husbands’.Topics discussed include: - The inspiration for ‘Kill Your Husbands’ - and its unique origins during the height of 50 Shades popularity.- The endurance of unlikely friendships - how shared experiences can sustain them - i.e. memories turning from tragedy to comedy.- Fear of losing a relationship as a driving force - the concept found in ‘I lost them because I tried so hard to keep them.’ - Overcoming self-doubt.- And lots more!Thanks very much to Jack for discussing ‘Kill Your Husbands’ on the show!

Writer and now novelist Maxine Fawcett joined me to talk about her debut novel, ‘Everything Is Perfect’.Topics discussed include: - What sparked ‘Everything Is Perfect’.- Deconstructing a ‘perfect’ marriage - tracing the history of a lifetime spent together with a partner - how it can be less a love story and more a life story. - The process (and importance) of ‘writing scared’.- Obsession - how it can form and how social media can enable it.- And heaps more!Thanks heaps to Maxine for chatting all things ‘Everything Is Perfect’ with me on the program!

The first guest for 2024 is writer and novelist, Dinuka McKenzie!She joined me to discuss her latest novel, the 3rd in the Detective Kate Miles series - ‘Tipping Point’.Topics discussed include: - The inspiration for Tipping Point - the brother and sister dynamic and the decision to open the novel with a chapter not from Kate’s perspective - a series first!- The importance of family/the goings-on of a family in Kate’s life/this series.How our understanding of others can be shaken/changed by certain events - contrasted with a family’s blind belief in one of their own. ‘They aren’t capable of this’ etc.- Guilt as a driving force.- Writing a series with a recurring central protagonist - the freedoms and restrictions it presents.- And a whole ton more!Thank you muchly to Dinuka for talking all things ‘Tipping Point’ and Kate Miles with me on the show!

Writer and novelist, Rae Cairns, joined me on the show to discuss her 2nd crime/thriller novel, ‘Dying To Know’.

Topics discussed include:

The origins of ‘Dying To Know’. The theme of belonging, the desire to belong to a group/family found in several characters throughout the novel. Rae’s boots-on-the-ground research into Sydney’s motorbike scene - from the social clubs to meeting ex-members of outlaw gangs - how all that served to bring the novel to life. The juggling act of Gen - the day-to-day of raising Charlie and Lily, while investigating the abduction of her sister, Amber. ‘Second Book Syndrome’ - what it was for Rae with writing this novel, and how she prevailed. And so much more!

Thanks so much to Rae for discussing ‘Dying To Know’ with me on the program!

Professional communicator, writer and novelist, Michelle Prak, appeared on the show to talk about her debut crime novel, ‘The Rush’.

Topics discussed include:

The genesis of ‘The Rush’ - including Michelle’s extensive travelling and road-tripping through some of the country’s remotest locations.
The importance of getting the setting right - including the ‘character’ of the rain/flood - how Michelle went about doing this.
The nature of trust - as applied to random people thrust together.
The gut instinct(s) we feel - trusting/being suspicious of someone - how our gut instincts and first impressions can be wrong. Or how ignoring our gut instincts can be to our detriment!
And so much more!

Thanks heaps to Michelle for discussing all things ‘The Rush’ with me on the program.

Grab your copy from Simon & Schuster now!

Michelle’s photo is credited to Kalyn Woodbury.

Writer, producer, comedian and now novelist, Carolyn Swindell, joined me on the show (all the way from Korea!) to discuss her debut novel, ‘We Only Want What’s Best’.

TRIGGER WARNING: There were brief mentions of child grooming and child abuse and citing a real-life case. If you are triggered by such subjects/themes - please reconsider listening to this episode.

Topics discussed include:

The inspiration behind the novel - its themes, characters and unique setting. The allure of performing at Disneyland - how this (supposedly) glamorous goal/destination can entice even the most reluctant, or wary, of performers and their parents. The fictional ‘Expressions’ Dance Troupe - what it represents - how it fosters a cult-like culture and environment that affects parents and performers alike. The disconnect/disparity between what parents think their daughters are like and up to - and the reality. The tightrope presented to teenagers - of respecting the power/rule of a monolithic institute, while at the same time developing one’s own agency. The differences/similarities in Carolyn’s comedic work and writing a novel depicting such serious subjects and themes. And so much more!

Huge thanks to Carolyn for discussing ‘We Only What’s Best’ with me on the show. Get your copy from Affirm Press now!

Writer and novelist, Mercedes Mercier joined me on the show to discuss her second novel, ‘Black Lies’.

Topics discussed include:

The genesis of ‘Black Lies’ - how Mercedes work within the criminal justice system has inspired her novel(s).
The writing of interrogation/conversation scenes - where minute changes in facial expressions and body language are vital. The challenges such scenes present and the fun Mercedes’ had writing them.
MC Criminal Psychologist Laura Fleming’s incredible talent for connecting with others (from chatting with cold-blooded killers about their love of dogs, to talking babies with the wives of motorcycle gang leaders) - how it serves as the basis and drive for some scenes.
The disparate nature of the work as a criminal psychologist - speaking with offenders and suspects of all types.
And so much more!

Thanks to Mercedes for chatting all things ‘Black Lies’ with me on the program. Get your copy now!

Journalist, editor, writer, poet and co-artistic director for Addi Road Writers Festival 2023, Mark Mordue, joined me on the show.Topics discussed include:A brief overview of Addi Road Writers Festival, and its pandemic/post-pandemic journey. The festival’s theme for the year - ‘inner worlds’. Festival highlights, including events and appearing guests.And so much more!Thanks to the festival’s artistic directors Mark Mordue and Sheila Ngọc Phạm, along with Addi Road CEO Rosanna Barbero and all others involved in putting on such an epic and important local writers' festival! The gorgeous illustration of this post is by Peter Bainbridge.So, get your tix to attend the festival on (next) Saturday, May 20th here: https://addiroad.org.au/writers-festival/#

Film director, Brandon Cronenberg, joined me on the show to discuss his latest science fiction/horror film, ‘Infinity Pool’, starring Alex Skarsgard, Mia Goth and Cleopatra Coleman.Topics discussed include:The themes of self-control and self-identity and their variations found in Brandon’s previous movie, ‘Possessor’ and ‘Infinity Pool’.What types of people are drawn to dangerous and exotic locations.The demarcation between those that commit transgressions and are remorseful, and those that aren’t. Subverting/trivialising punishment - when punishment without true or lasting repercussions becomes tokenistic and what can arise from that both within the offender and for the society they inhabit.Strength and cowardice - what constitutes both - what both are seen as by characters in ‘Infinity Pool’. And so much more!Big thanks to Brandon for chatting with me on the show. ‘INFINITY POOL’ is in cinemas May 11 - go and see it!

Speaker, podcast host, author and writer, Ashley Kalagian Blunt, appeared on the 1st episode of the show for 2023 - discussing her thriller novel, ‘Dark Mode’.Topics discussed include:The inspiration for ‘Dark Mode’ - Ashley’s research into infamous cases of stalking and murders, along with her own educational excursions onto the dark web.The era (2017) - the last time someone could get away without having a smartphone, along with Donald Trump’s comments embodying a new online misogynistic movement. Enmore/Inner-West - writing a psychological thriller set in the location Ashley first wrote about, very differently, in ‘How To Be Australian’.The unshakable presence of “the other” - knowing they would/could be anywhere and everywhere - how this can detrimentally alter and define a victim’s life. How contemporary life and society make it almost impossible for an individual to be ‘off-the-grid’ i.e. no smartphone, no social media accounts.The terrifying reality of how technology has enabled unprecedented access to, and power over, an individual - i.e. deepfake technology, invasion/control over finances/assets/entire life.Ashley’s experiences with long-form writing with her C.F.S. (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome).And so much more!Thanks again to Ashley for talking all things ‘Dark Mode’ with me. What a brilliant guest to kick off the show’s 2023! Get your copy of ‘Dark Mode’ now!

Writer, podcast host, and now novelist, James McKenzie Watson, joined me to discuss his 2021 Penguin Literary Prize-winning debut novel, ‘Denizen’. Trigger Warning: Mental health/mental health issues were discussed. Topics discussed include: - The origins of ‘Denizen’ - an examination of family and friendship dynamics and mental health in small-town rural Australia. - The notion of ‘just be good’. - The cycle of ‘tension’ endemic to rural Australia. - The importance of writing the story as earnestly and unflinchingly as possible. How to tone it down, or to otherwise make it more palatable would be a disservice to the real-life issues/subject matter. - Writing for self vs an audience. - And so much more! Thanks again to James for discussing all things ‘Denizen’ and writing with me on the show. What a superb guest to close out the year! Get your copy of ‘Denizen’ now!

Screenwriter, filmmaker, documentarian, author and novelist Greg Woodland joined me on the show to talk about his latest novel, ‘The Carnival Is Over’. Topics discussed include: How the novel’s idea developed, with characters recurring from Greg’s first published novel, ‘The Night Whistler’. The joys and challenges of writing a new novel with established characters - ‘like going home and visiting old friends again.’ How we can feel that the mistakes of our past can determine our future, as exemplified by the recurring character of Hal. Writing full-realised characters. Characters that refuse to be victims - replete with agency. First Nation’s character, Allie - and the origins of her character. Greg’s writerly journey - from venturing into long-form writing because the screenplays were stuck in development hell - to now working on green-lit screenplays of his long-form work. And so much more! Big thanks to Greg for chatting with us on the program. Get your hands on ‘The Carnival Is Over’ from the good folks at Text now!

Writer, academic, researcher and now published novelist Victoria Brookman appeared on the show to discuss her debut published novel, ‘Burnt Out’.

Topics discussed include:

The Blue Mountains. The very real threat of fires in the region and the lasting devastation they can cause on the locals, such as the unprecedented 2019/20 Black Summer Fires.
Victoria’s own experiences with living in the region and having to be ready for such conditions. How such experiences and the questions that arose from them shaped what became ‘Burnt Out’.
The innate struggle writers face with writing the dreaded second book. What problems that can cause and what such problems caused Cali, the novel’s central character, to do.
The powers and perils of becoming an influencer and/or author of a hashtag.
Compromise and its various forms, how they are similar/different.
An individual’s moral/ethical compass. How vital it is to obtain/retain one’s own agency.
And so much more! Huge thanks to Victoria for chatting with me on the show. Grab your copy of ‘Burnt Out’ from Harper Collins Australia now!

Former youth worker turned crime writer, Rae Cairns, joined me to talk about her Ned Kelly award nominated debut novel, ‘The Good Mother’.

Topics discussed include:

The origins of the novel, including Rae’s time spent as a youth worker in Northern Ireland - learning about ‘The Troubles’. A mother’s protecton of her children - how a mother can prevail over terror and threats, even revisiting sites of trauma or placing oneself in mortal peril in order to protect her child[ren]. Believing in a cause - how this greater unifier can benefit/detrimentially impact the individual specifically and humanity overall. A mother’s intuition - how it can lead a mother and/or lead a mother astray. How an eye for an eye leaves the world blind. What it is to ‘move on’/‘move forward’ in life. And so much more! Big thanks to Rae for appearing on the show. Get your copy of ‘The Good Mother’ now!

The show returns after a brief mid-year break with the next instalment in the ‘Publisher talk’ series - with Martin Hughes, CEO and publishing director at Affirm Press. Topics discussed include: - Changes that Martin/Affirm Press have experienced with the industry and role of a publisher, post-pandemic. - The importance of authors and publishers establishing a long-term relationship. How a shared vision for the future can ensure that early challenges (i.e. one title being a tough sell for a debut novelist) are conquered and ultimately a strong working relationship can be forged. - As always - the most priceless of advice about what an aspiring author can do to ensure their manuscript really shines and stands out. ‘Don’t be afraid to fail’ - advice that extends to those also looking to take the plunge into publishing too. How a surplus of passion can guide you - up until you find that person(s) to collaborate with. - Finding unique/original voices through working closely with writing groups/organisations - i.e. SweatShop. - And so much more! Huge thanks to Martin for chatting with us on the program. Check out all the titles Affirm Press have: https://affirmpress.com.au/books/

Advocate, documentary host, interviewer, writer and novelist Tara Moss appeared on the program to discuss her latest novel, ‘The Ghosts of Paris’. Topics discussed include: - The inclusion of real-life historical characters within a fictional novel/novel series, why they can be included and the respectful balance required to include them. - Weaving in the societal sensibilities and attitudes of the era - how they serve to fully realise a historical fiction setting. - How physical places can be imbued with such strong memories, traumatic or joyful, how we/Billie feels this (i.e. returning to Europe still reeling from war). - The powerful need to find the truth - even when it can damage or harm us - how this drives Billie in ‘The Ghosts Of Paris’. - And so much more! Thanks so much to Tara for joining me - all the way from Canada! Get your copy of ‘The Ghosts of Paris’ now!

Writer, interviewer, podcaster (of ‘Words & Nerds’ fame), novelist and now children’s author, Dani Vee, joined me on the program to discuss her debut published children’s picture book, ‘My EXTRAordinary Mum’. Topics discussed include: - The importance of self-expression in a mum - how that is conducive to a child becoming/embracing themselves and their own identity too. - The many different versions of extraordinary - how extraordinary is not just classified as being loud and colourful. - To thine own self be true - how crucial it is to be ourselves. - Important traits and qualities parents hope their kids inherit. - How it is okay to not be ok - segueing into anxiety in creatives, along with our own lived experiences. - And so much more! Thanks heaps to Dani for chatting with me on the show - grab your copy of ‘My EXTRAordinary Mum’ from Dani’s publisher, Larrikin House from here: https://larrikinhouse.com.au/products/my-extraordinary-mum

Writer Ashley Goldberg joined me on the program to discuss his debut novel, ‘Abomination’. Trigger warning - child sex abuse/instituional sex abuse was discussed (briefly). Topics discussed include: How faith can define us - either our own identity, our how we think others view us - how the two can differ greatly. Friendship - the core of the story - that of Erza and Yonatan. How friendships can endure, with the affinity of faith, or in spite of the schism of it. Why our identity can define our existence and how being part of a community, or outside of one, can define our existence too. And so much more! Thanks be to Ashley for talking with me on the show - get your copy of ‘Abomination’ this instant!

In the second instalment of TWW’s ‘Publisher Talk’ series, Catherine Milne, Head of Fiction at Harper Collins, joined me on the show to talk shop: Topics discussed include: - What changes the industry has undergone post pandemic. - Titles Catherine has/is looking for - what makes a title stand out. - Harper Collins’s Banjo Prize - the idea behind it and how it has launched careers since its inception. - Invaluable advice galore, for both writers looking to get published, to those wishing to work within the publishing industry. - And so much more! Thanks heaps to Catherine for chatting with me on the show - and for publishing epic Australian titles (looking at you ‘Boy Swallows Universe).

Former journalist, lawyer, writer and now novelist, Lyn McFarlane, joined me on the show to discuss her debut children's novel, ‘The Scarlet Cross’. TRIGGER WARNING: Topics discussed include schizophrenia, mental health/illnesses, self-harm, suicide. Topics discussed include: - The process of creating the fictional hospital - St. Jude Hospital - its backstory and architecture, its patients and doctors and their workplace culture and everything else that went into the immersive setting. - The robustness of the crime genre - the freedom it affords to write and weave in societal issues and histories, without detracting from a fast-paced, thrilling story. - The sister relationship at the core of the story - that of Meredith and Bella - how Lyn always wanted to write a unique care-giver story role. - The writing of Bella’s character - Lyn’s need to make her a fully dimensional and accomplished person in her own right - not someone singularly defined by their schizophrenia. - And so much more! Thanks heaps to Lyn for talking with me on the show. Grab a copy of ‘The Scarlet Cross’

Writer and now novelist, Maggie Jankuloska, joined me on the show to discuss her debut children's novel, ‘The Rat-Catcher’s Apprentice’. Topics discussed include: Bringing 17th century plague-ridden provincial France to life - creating the fictional township of Saint-Ophelie. The elements required in any good historical fiction novel in order to create a strong sense of place. How this differs for a younger/child audience. Marie the central character - the incorrigible dreamer and storyteller. How storytelling can keep us and others enduringly hopeful, even in the darkest and bleakest of settings and circumstances. How kind characters remain kind, even to those that are wicked and have wronged them - what that says about human nature. How we can form familial ties with those we meet through journeys and hardships. And so much more! Thanks heaps to Maggie for talking with me on the show. Grab a copy of ‘The Rat-Catcher’s Apprentice’ now!

In this very special episode, recorded live on location at Better Read Than Dead, I had a discussion with writer, former director of the Wollongong Writers Festival and now novelist, Hayley Scrivenor at the Sydney launch of her debut novel, ‘Dirt Town’. Topics discussed include: The origins of the novel, its writing process and how it differed greatly from the writing of short stories. The ‘voices’ that tell the story, how they defined the story, how they shaped it, how Hayley corralled them all into the finished version of ‘Dirt Town’. The authenticity of voice with the writing of children's perspectives. The fictional setting of Durton, how Hayley crafted such a strong sense of place. And so much more! Thanks so much to Hayley for chatting with me on the show, get your copy of ‘Dirt Town’ now.

Writer, essayist, playwright, novelist and dramatague Nigel Featherstone chatted with me on the show, discussing his latest novel - ‘My heart is a little wild thing’. Topics discussed include: Landscapes - our ties to them - how they can shape us and define us. How we feel such strong, ineffable ties to them. How the other living beings that inhabit them (from birds to trees and everything else in between) also serve to shape our perception and feelings about the land and about life. How people we know and love can remain a mystery to us, even after decades. (Even touched on Sumner Locke Elliott a bit - I felt very special picking up the reference). Caring for aging parents - how it is much more a privilege than an obligation. How this relationship in the story can be viewed as our generation caring for the environment - and what the cataclysmic cost could be if we fail to do so. And so, so much more! Thanks so much to Nigel for chatting with me on the show, get your copy of ‘My heart is a little wild thing’ now.

Former bookshop owner/seller and director of books at Booktopia, John Purcell, joined me to discuss his latest novel, ‘The Lessons’. Topics discussed include: The origins of ‘The Lessons’ stemming from an idea from an unfinished novel twenty years ago - to unexpected arrival of the the voice of Harry, launching what would become the completed novel. The change in process of the novel (pantser) - how it differed greatly to John’s other works and the challenges it presented. The study in contrasts in characters - from their understanding of themselves and others - the masculinity/femininity (real or imagined) some characters might feel they have or lack and how that is perceived by others. How we as people can struggle to accept the people we know and love can change - the desire to want them to be ‘that’ version as we cherish and remember. The problems this can cause and how people can dedicate their lives to pursuing ‘that’ version of someone. How writers can often have the hardest time trying to articulate themselves to others when speaking - the power of the written word/form. And so much more! Thanks so much to John for talking to me on the program, get your copy of ‘The Lessons’ now!

Writer and novelist, Robert Lukins, joined me on the show to discuss his second and latest novel, ‘Loveland’. Topics discussed include: Crafting the Nebraska that May visits, capturing its essence and making the fictional township of Loveland come alive - right down to the Goyle tours and the time capsule. Why people obsess over previous generations and eras - how everything is gilded with nostalgia, particularly when you didn’t live in that previous generation/era. Water - what draws us to bodies of water - even poisoned lakes. Robert’s writerly journey - from writing novels he deleted the instant he finished, to now releasing two published novels of his own. The best of conversation trajectories - describing the writing process and pursuit and everything in between. And so much more! Thanks so much to @ for having such an epic and earnest chat with me - especially about the writing. I loved the way that conversation went.

Writer of both fiction and non-fiction works and novelist, Maryrose Cuskelly, joined me on the show to discuss her novel, ‘The Cane’. Topics discussed include: The inspiration for the novel, including several high-profile cases of abductions and murders of young Queenslander girls that occurred during Maryrose’s own childhood. The setting - the township of Quala & Kaliope - surrounded by the titular cane. A place with a strong sense of community, but tensions and injustices easily noticeable, burbling under the surface. How a community rallies together in times of crises, such as a young local girl’s disappearance - but then just as easily transforms and turns in on itself when faced with the likelihood that the killer could be ‘one of theirs’ - including a willingness to single out anyone remotely different. And so much more! Thanks so much to Maryrose for chatting with me on the program - you can pick up a copy of ‘The Cane’ from her publisher, Allen and Unwin, now!

Former festival director of the Sydney Writers Festival, and publisher at Penguin Random House Australia, Meredith Curnow, joined me on the show. Topics discussed include: Meredith’s journey to becoming a publisher, from being a festival director and her life before that. Along with some career highlights and challenges she’s encountered along the way. How the ever-changing industry has changed since the pandemic. How TikTok has become a great platform for finding literary talent. Insights into the process of publishing, from how Meredith selects titles (and what makes a title stand out) to the ‘end’ of the journey, with the title on the shelves. Advice for aspiring authors, as well as those looking to work in the industry. And so much more! Thanks heaps to Meredith for appearing on the show - and for everything she does at PRH!

Writer and now novelist, Alicia Thompson, joined me on the show to discuss her debut novel, ‘Something Else’. Topics discussed include: The fictional small-town setting of Bruce - a place that’s not much to look at. How a place has an impact on the shaping of a character and a story, as much as a character shapes the place in which they live. The instant and profound connection David feels with Martin. How these chance encounters can happen and can permanently alter us. Acceptance - an acceptance of self and an acceptance of others. How we can be confused, or devastated, when we find that those we love and supposedly know are not who we thought they were, but how we can and do move forward with a newfound appreciation for them, as well as ourselves. How people can come into our lives and cleanse or free us from what has haunted or burdened us, be it trauma or guilt or anything else impairing us - allowing us to go on and live the lives we’ve denied ourselves. And seriously so much more! We went down a veritable rabbit-hole of a discussion we did. Thanks heaps to Alicia for chatting with me on the show, you can pick up a copy of ‘Something Else’ from the good folks at Ninestar Press, here: https://ninestarpress.com/product/something-else/

Former actress, screenwriter and film director, Mia Hansen-Love, appeared on the program to discuss her latest film, ‘Bergman Island’. Topics discussed include: How the soul of an influential creative such as Ingmar Bergman, can inhabit a place for long after they have passed away. How Mia herself felt Bergman’s presence during her time spent at ‘Bergman Island’/Fårö and what a positive effect this can have on oneself and their creativity. Noticing the similarities between totally different locations. How someone can visit a place they’ve never been before, but be reminded of another place including from their youth i.e. places from Mia’s youth and their peaceful silence, reminding her of Bergman Island. The connection and resonance one feels with a natural landscape, such as Bergman did with Fårö - ‘it was as if he found a place that had lived inside him all along.’ Why people/aspiring creatives embark on pilgrimages to places hallowed by their idols - i.e. those that visit Bergman Island and how, in Mia’s experience, she encountered people that found the island to ignite creativity, not just for filmmakers but for all creatives. And much more! Thanks be to Mia for joining me all the way from France to discuss ‘Bergman Island’. The film is out in Australian cinemas now, so go see it!

Journalist, travel writer and now novelist, Lizzie Pook, joined me to discuss her debut novel, ‘Moonlight And The Pearler’s Daughter’. Topics discussed include: How Lizzie’s research process of visiting such idyllic, historic sites along W.A.’s coastline, paired with her travel writing repertoire, served as the groundwork for the novel. Creating Bannin Bay - along with featuring the frequently ugly and often underknown history of pearling and the pearler trade. The father and daughter dynamic at the core of the story that Lizzie wanted to explore - how we can consider our parents to be perfect in our youth and how we accept their flaws as we age. The goodness/badness and moral quandary in all people and how acknowledging its existence, is what can bring us together. How trauma can propel us, as much as leave as in a state of stasis. The unique writing of the novel, how pandemic-related circumstances prompted the novel and how Lizzie managed to write a novel during such a tumultuous time. And so much more! Huge thanks to Lizzie for appearing on the program, all the way from London, be sure to pick up your copy of ‘Moonlight And The Pearler’s Daughter’ now!

Doctor, writer and now novelist, Anke Zet, joined me to discuss her debut novel, ‘Deception’ (Book 1 in the Unearthly Talents Series). Topics discussed include: The unique writing process for writing the story - the decision to split the mammoth novel into separate installments and what challenges that presented. Her persistence and need for self-belief, which was especially crucial in the decision to tell the story that she wanted to, despite pressure from editors etc to change elements/the entire story. Anke’s publishing journey, from exploring and undertaking the more ‘traditional’ publishing routes of established publishing houses and literary agents, to taking the plunge into self-publishing. The challenges encountered with the ‘red-tape’ of self-publishing and how she feels now, looking back on it all. The importance of making writerly promises - and keeping them. How one promise Anke made to herself, propelled her through the tumultuous and tough journey to get to this point. And so much more! Thanks be to Anke for appearing on the show, you can pick up your copy of ‘Deception’ and all others to follow here:

https://www.amazon.com.au/Deception-Book-one-Unearthly-Talents-ebook/dp/B09Q311C1L/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1644809797&sr=8-4

Writer, author, editor and Ambassador for Thailand’s Save Elephant Foundation, Irma Gold, joined me to discuss her debut adult fiction novel, ‘The Breaking’. TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses the ongoing plight of elephants in Thailand. Topics discussed include: The novel’s genesis, blending fact and fiction, Irma’s own experiences and imagination. How central characters Deven and Hannah led her by the hand in the writing of the story. How Irma captured the essence of, and depicted the ‘real’ Thailand - how her diary keeping and photography documenting her visits helped achieve the novel’s sense of place. Depicting animal abuse, including the Phajaan, ‘the breaking’ - along with many other atrocities still faced by elephants. How it was necessary to include such scenes in order to truly depict the situation. What draws people from all over the world, to take up the cause of elephant conversation and liberation. The beauty and the ugliness, the balance between the two and blending the two in the novel’s story. And so much more! Thank you so much to Irma for appearing on the show, you can pick up your copy of ‘The Breaking’ from the good folks at MidnightSun publishing.

First episode for 2022! Journalist, author and writer Emma Young joined me on the program to discuss her novel, ‘The Last Bookshop’. Topics discussed include: - The plight of the brick and mortar/independent bookshop. How many are subjected to constant rent hikes, sometimes resulting in relocating to more affordable locations, or going out of business altogether. - What makes bookshops such a unique and vital fixture within a community. How the pandemic has strengthened ties with communities and their local independent bookshops. - Examples of times when independent bookshops have nearly been forced to close their doors, and the communities have rallied together to support them. - And so much more! Thanks heaps to Emma for appearing on the show, you can get your copy of ‘The Last Bookshop’ from the good folks at Fremantle Press.

Podcaster, actor and filmmaker Dasha Nekrasova joined me from New York to discuss her directorial debut, ‘The Scary Of Sixty-First’. TRIGGER WARNING: the Jeffrey Epstein case is discussed. Topics discussed include: - The origins of the idea – how the infamous case served to shape a Giallo-influenced, 70s-esque horror film. - Why the world is obsessed with the case of Jeffrey Epstein. - Filming in the locations that the real-life Epstein frequented. The importance of filming in the real-life places i.e. Epstein’s townhouse/the jailhouse he died in – places charged with the ‘aura’ of him. - Making the film Dasha wanted to – a potentially tough undertaking for a directorial debut. - Why horror movies can be the best platform for serious social commentary. - And so much more!

Thanks heaps to Dasha for talking to me from the U.S. – check out Arcadia’s website to find out where you can catch ‘The Scary Of Sixty-First’ here:

https://www.thisisarcadia.com/thescaryofsixtyfirst

The official Year In Review for The Write Way podcast. Topics include: - The history of me – an overview of the past 17+ years of my writerly pursuits, the endless trials and tribulations, all of which have been vital to getting to this crazy junction. - The lead-up to podcasting – the scary point, taking the plunge from written interviews, into the seemingly technical realm of podcasting. How Dani Vee’s advice and support helped me get things going. - Those shaky first few eps – how far the show has come since those shame-job technologically-challenged days i.e. recording eps with guests on loud-speaker. - Some highlights from the year – a glimpse of just some of the guests I was blessed enough to speak to – how all the guests have invaluably benefited my life and soul. - The future of The Write Way, including the first slate of guests for 2022. - The official introduction of the new show, with a fancy new name (you wanna know the name, you gotta listen to the ep!). If you haven’t already, be sure to follow the show on Spotify. Danke to all and to all a good 2021 (what remains of it!).

Writer, essayist, screen-writer, playwright and novelist Christos Tsiolkas joined me to discuss his latest novel, ‘7 ½‘. Topics discussed include: - The journey from writing an entirely different novel, Damascus, to undertaking 7 ½. How Christos’s experience with the outbreak of COV-19, further drove him to write what would ultimately become 7 ½. - How nature and its beauty are tied in with the creative process. How the appreciation for the stillness afforded by nature, is so important in the creative process. - Sexuality – its shaping and how moments in our youth can define it. How everything is erotic. - How a writer’s/creative’s own memories can shape our fictional characters. How difficult it can be to distinguish or pinpoint where the use of our memories ends and our pure imagination begins. - How the ‘safe’ mindset can be hazardous and can limit the amount of impactful, lastingly meaningful novels. - And so much more. Thank you so much to Christos (one of my favourite Australian writers) – for talking to me – (what a surreal experience!). You can get your copy of 7 ½ from the good folks at Allen & Unwin, here: https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/books/fiction/Seven-and-a-Half-Christos-Tsiolkas-9781761065330

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Filmmakers and co-directors, Justin Krook and Luke Mazzaferro, joined me to discuss their feature-length documentary, ‘A Fire Inside’. TRIGGER WARNING: Topics discussed include the devastating effects of the 2019-20 bushfires that decimated Australia. Including discussing the resultant loss of lives, human and animal, and property, along with mental health/PTSD issues. Topics discussed include: - How Luke and Justin went about the making of the film – compiling so much unbelievable, apocalyptic footage, with stories, both heartbreaking and uplifting, of survivors and members of these ravaged communities. - The disparate people that are every-day Australians that go into these hellish scenes to save lives. How some do this for a very Australian reason - ‘it’s what we do’. - How heroes don’t just wear uniforms, extending beyond the volunteer fighters, to all other members of the community featured, all the selfless acts of altruism they did – and still do, for other members of their community. - Australia’s collective response to the efforts of these volunteer firefighters – phones never stopping ringing, so many donations people can’t move – the outpouring of assistance and kindness. How for every 1 person caught looting, there’s 9-10 more that are helping any way they can. - The changing of one emergency to another - from when the rains came and the fires ended, to when mental health/PTSD issues arise and continue to affect community members/volunteer firefighters. How the nation’s attitude has changed over the years – to that of, ‘it’s ok, to not be ok’. - Hope – lasting (and realistic) hope – how one person can truly make a difference. Be sure to see ‘A Fire Inside’ at the Sydney Film Festival: https://www.sff.org.au/program/browse/a-fire-inside Check out Finch Films, and their works, including ‘A Fire Inside’: https://www.finchcompany.com/production/a-fire-inside-feature-documentary/

Australian filmmaker and director, Kiah Roache-Turner (Wyrmwood, Nekrotronic), joined me to talk about his latest film, ‘Wyrmwood Apocalypse’. Topics discussed include: - The long road to the second instalment in the Wyrmwood series – from the various plot ideas discussed back in 2015 (at the special Q&A screening I attended), to what was ultimately committed to screen. How Kiah’s experiences with other projects, helped improve his writing, getting him to a place where he was ready to undertake a return to Wyrmwood and its world. - How ‘Wyrmwood Apocalypse’ has the same spirit in many respects as its predecessor, but how it is also different in many ways – ‘the ALIENS to ALIEN’. - Kiah’s collaboration with brother Tristan Roache-Turner, how they work and go about creating stories together. How the partnership has enabled them to make movies when the industry and process can be so tough. - And seriously so very much more! Huge thanks to Kiah for appearing on the program – run, don’t walk, to catch ‘Wyrmwood Apocalypse’ at the Sydney Film Festival, here: https://www.sff.org.au/program/browse/wyrmwood-apocalypse

Journalist and writer, Mike Burge, joined me to discuss his debut novel, ‘Tank Water’. TRIGGER WARNING: Topics/themes explored include homophobia, gay-bashing, hate-crimes, violence and murder. Please do not listen to this episode if this might trigger/otherwise affect you. Topics discussed include: - The novel’s ten-year journey. Mike allowing for the passage of time before he could write about such a setting, which is fictional (along with the characters) but inspired by his growing up in rural NSW. - Mike’s exhaustive research into Australian hate/gay hate crime - including the NSW Inquiry Into Gay And Transgender Hate Crimes Between 1970 and 2010 – along with his own journalistic-driven findings, how all of this informed and helped shape the story he wanted to tell with ‘Tank Water’. - Writing trauma – writing fictional characters but honouring the untold and unseen real-life people they represent – the importance of this and the need for a balance between earnest storytelling and never verging into gratuitousness, including the writing of ‘ghost chapters’ - The importance of creating gay characters that were fully realised, and weren’t there to just be a victim of a crime, including featuring realistic and intense lust and desire, burgeoning sexuality and enduring love. - Intergenerational oppression and cyclical hate – how gay-bashing/murder has gone on for generations, exemplified within the different generations of families that orbit the fictional setting of Kippen. - How gay stories with outback settings are steadily emerging within contemporary literature, including within the Y.A. sphere. - Mike’s road to ‘Tank Water’ getting picked up by a publisher. The need to find that right publisher, particularly after being told that the genre was on its last legs (which was prior to Outback Noir emerging and becoming so insanely popular). - The importance of never giving up, and never truly meaning to anyway! Thanks heaps to Mike for appearing on the show to talk about ‘Tank Water’, you can pick up your copy from his publisher, MidnightSun Publishing, here: https://midnightsunpublishing.com/2021/09/tank-water/

Computer scientist, editor, writer and prolific author of speculative fiction, Eugen Bacon, joined me on the program to discuss her latest collection of short stories, ‘Danged Black Thing’. Topics discussed include: - The assembling of the collection featured in ‘Danged Black Thing’, deciding which stories to pair from her body of work – what the overarching theme of the collection was/is. - Her use of various narrative styles – including the seldom-seen use of 2nd person – how a story comes to her and the process in which she writes it. - Eugen’s unique blending of the fantastical and surreal, paired with fully realised characters, how her technologically attuned brain informs her imagination and vice versa. - Where Eugen draws inspiration from – including fables and mythologies from all corners of the globe, along with her heritage and migration experience to Australia. - How speculative fiction is a ‘safe’ space, allowing for any and all kinds of thoughts and questions framed in any and all kinds of stories and settings. - And so, so much more! Thanks heaps to Eugen for appearing on the program, you can pick up your copy of ‘Danged Black Thing’ from Transit Lounge, here: https://transitlounge.com.au/shop/danged-black-thing/ Also check out Eugen’s website: https://eugenbacon.com/

Best-selling Australian noir author, Chris Hammer (Scrublands, Silver, Trust), joined the program to talk about his new standalone novel, ‘Treasure & Dirt’. Topics discussed include: - The story of creating Finnigans Gap, the setting of ‘Treasure & Dirt’, from visiting Lightning Ridge and learning about opal mining from real-life opal miners. How Chris uses real-life landscapes as a basis for creating fictional towns and settings – letting the needs of the story shape the geography of them accordingly. - How Chris goes about creating his characters, be they major or minor – from their memorable names, to how they orbit the setting and interact with other characters, including discussing in detail the lead characters in Treasure & Dirt – Sydney homicide detective, Ivan Lucic and investigator Narelle ‘Nell’ Buchanan. - The challenges faced and new experiences gained with writing from members of the police force – how different they were/are to Chris’s experience in writing journalist protagonist of his other three novels, Martin Scarsden. - His writing process. Of the pantser persuasion, Chris talked about how his stories and novels evolve throughout their writing. How his process has changed, for the better and become smoother with repetition (including talking about re-writing the ending of Scrublands repeatedly). - Chris’s journey to becoming one of Australia’s leading crime fiction/noir writers – from writing a novel when he was younger, to two creative non-fiction books – and his journalist years, how it all served to bring him to the point of penning Scrublands and beyond. Thanks heaps to Chris for chatting with me on the show – you can pick up a copy of ‘Treasure & Dirt’ and all the instalments thus far in the Martin Scarsden novels, at Chris’s publisher, Allen & Unwin, here: https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/books/fiction/Treasure-and-Dirt-Chris-Hammer-9781760877606

New York Times bestselling author, Matthew Reilly, appeared on the program all the way from the U.S. of A to talk with me about his latest novel (the final in the Jack West Jnr. series) – ‘The One Impossible Labyrinth’. Topics discussed include: - Thoughts and feelings about being at the definitive conclusion of a series he’s been working on for 17-odd years - the final send-off of Jack West Jnr – and how it needed to be Jack’s story, complete with sparing inclusions of flashbacks informing about his past. - How Matt went about ensuring that all characters, fan favourites and all the others that fill the series, got their right amount of ‘screen’ time within a very finite amount of pages. - Writing engaging characters. From the introduction of new ones, new heroes (i.e. Smiley the bronzeman) to the writing of good baddies. The importance of creating villains and ensuring that they receive an appropriately awful end after causing hell for the beloved heroes throughout the series. - How the COV-19 pandemic changed Matt’s writing process for the final novel. - Looking back thus far – what’s been achieved and what Matt’s overcome to get to where he is. - And so much more (including talking about ‘Squid Game’!) Thanks heaps to Matt for appearing on the program! You can get your copy of ‘The One Impossible Labyrinth’ and all other instalments in the Jack West Jnr from Pan Macmillan.

Writer, independent researcher and historian Barbara Minchinton, appeared on the program to discuss her book – ‘The Women Of Little Lon’. Topics discussed include: - Barbara’s collaborations with several archaeological teams operating on sites around Little Lon – uncovering artefacts and their history - how that served as the impetus for what would become the exhaustively researched ‘The Women Of Little Lon’. - The difficulty with researching and tracing the history of the sex workers featured in the book – including conflicting accounts and people going by many aliases. The missing puzzle pieces of accounts. - Those that opposed and condemned the sex workers – from politicians to policemen and journalists – many of them out and out misogynists – how their descriptions of, or recordings of events, shaped (wrongly) the historical accounts Barbara had to sift through, in order to find the truth/truest accounts (i.e. family history accounts). - How far removed from the truth the stereotypes peddled by these types were from the true lives and the characters of sex workers of Little Lon. Failing to mention, or choosing to completely ignore the support, documented support, and care the sex worker community gave to one another, from child minding and rearing to the helping of delivering babies and more – and how it shines through the accounts dimmed by the pervasively misogynistic historical accounts. - Just how significant and important the sex work and the sex workers were, not only within their own community, but within the broader society at the time – the many businesses and tradespeople who were reliant on their business – from milliners and dressmakers to landlords and grog suppliers, and everything in between. - The book’s purpose – shedding light on a place and the people that inhabited it, who are rarely mentioned, or even given the acknowledgement and respect they are due, throughout the annals of history. How Barbara has sought to create the true/truest account in order to rectify the grossly incorrect history perpetuated by the misogynistic accounts from the era. - Plus, a whole ton more! Thanks heaps to Barbara for appearing on the show, you can pick up your copy of ‘The Women Of Little Lon’ from her publisher, Black Inc, at: https://www.blackincbooks.com.au/books/women-little-lon

Screenwriter Shaun Grant joined me to discuss his latest film – a biopic of Port Arthur gunman, Martin Bryant, ‘Nitram’. TRIGGER WARNING: Topics discussed include gun violence, mass-shooting and the lead-up to these real-life events. Topics discussed include: - What drew him to the project, how his experience with adapting other Australian historical events and figures, from the legendary (‘The True History of the Kelly gang’) to the similarly infamous (‘Snowtown’) has helped shape the process – along with his collaboration on these projects with director Justin Kurzel. - The decision to include no on-screen violence, including not showing the events of Port Arthur. When that was made, and why that was so vital in telling the story they wanted to tell. - The inherent difficulties in presenting an authentic and complete storyline, without being interpreted as ‘humanising’ such a monstrous figure. - And heaps more. Thanks to Shaun for chatting with me on the program. ‘Nitram’ is set to arrive on streaming platform, Stan, in the coming week(s), along with a full national theatrical release too.

Award-winning writer and novelist, Mark Brandi, appeared on the program to talk about his latest novel, ‘The Others’. Topics discussed include: - Creating the ‘voice’ of the 11-year-old narrator, the pitfalls and challenges faced when writing a novel, an ‘grown-up’ novel, featuring a child narrator. How draining it could be – to sustain that voice in the writing, and how rewarding. - The wonder that was prevalent within the mind and actions of the narrator, how that was an important quality in attaining that authenticity. - The meaning of words – how much the meaning of words can sometimes only truly be conveyed from those with an empirical experience – how, within the context of ‘The Others’ the words and their meanings made the narrator question his father, his truth, their life. - A sense of duty and desire – duty in what the narrator will do to preserve the life he has with his father, desire or what soon transforms into something more compelling, forcing his hand, to do the right thing when faced with a terrible choice. - The connections in the novel, beyond that of the connection/dynamic at its core between the father and son – but that of the narrator and the animals/foxes/sheep he encounters – how these interactions exemplified his character, his kind nature. - And so much more! Thanks heaps to Mark for appearing on the program, you can pick up your copy of ‘The Others’ from Hachette, here: https://www.hachette.com.au/mark-brandi/the-others

Writer, editor and now novelist, Lyn Yeowart, joined me on the program to discuss her debut novel, ‘The Silent Listener’. TRIGGER WARNING: The chat included lengthy discussions of child abuse, domestic violence, partner/spousal abuse, etc. If these subjects or their offshoots might trigger you, I do not recommend listening to this episode. Topics discussed include: - How the novel came to be, arising from a collection of creative non-fiction writings, along with a Masterclass and everything in between, ultimately forming into ‘The Silent Listener’. - How items, seemingly innocuous ones, can be imbued with such power. How our empirical experience with them defines/denotes their importance and meaning to us. How a writer can be good at articulating to a reader the power of an item that might previously not have any sort of significance to them in their lives. - Terror. How terror can subside, but never completely go away, for those living in such a setting. Lyn’s use of ‘eels’ – a fine description to capture such a sensation. How this terror is lifelong, including even when visiting an enfeebled abuser on their deathbed. - Joy’s love of words, married with her imagination and synesthesia – the infinity library, what a good afterlife that would be. - Reading. The bliss of reading. How it is Lyn’s form of meditation (mine too). - And seriously so much more!

Thanks so much to Lyn for appearing on the program and discussing her incredible novel with me. You can pick up your copy from PRH here:

https://www.penguin.com.au/books/the-silent-listener-9781760895730

Writer and award-winning novelist, Sarah Bailey, joined me to talk about her latest (and first standalone) novel, ‘The Housemate’. Topics discussed include:

The origins of the idea. How it had been lodged in Sarah’s brain for several years and eventually became ‘The Housemate’.
Choosing to set the story (the main timeline) in 2015 – when the medium of podcasts were still somewhat in their infancy, and true-crime podcasts in particular were yet to take off.
How character Cooper Ng embodied the emergence of the ‘new’ type of journalist, in contrast with the ‘old school’ type exemplified in main character Olive ‘Oli’ Groves. The contrast between the two and their methods.
Why cases like the fictional ‘Housemate Homicide’ and real life/true crime cases can have such an impact on Australia’s collective psyche – ‘I can remember the headlines, but for the life of me, I can’t remember the details of the case’.
The shifting and possibly alarming way in which Australians/the world consume true-crime, including the emergence of internet sleuths and the like – how they have a tendency to fail to appreciate the lives lost/the victims at the centre of the cases, and are instead swept up in the craze of the culture.
The way in which the scape has shifted for journalists doing their job – no longer afforded the ‘anonymity to hide behind the byline’ – making the work even more dangerous and subject to horrific online harassment and/or worse.
How it felt to write a standalone novel after the Gemma Woodstock trilogy.
And so very much more! Thanks heaps to Sarah for chatting with me on the show, you can get your hands on a copy of ‘The Housemate’ from A&U publishing house, here:

https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/books/fiction/crime-mystery/The-Housemate-Sarah-Bailey-9781760529338

Former advertising strategist, writer and now novelist, Tania Farrelly, joined me to discuss her debut novel, ‘The Eighth Wonder’. Topics discussed include: - Bringing the close-of-the-19th/turn-of-the-20th century New York/‘gilded age’ setting to life. The immense research that went into it (including visiting the real life, still-standing locations) and how Tania went about filtering all her findings through the lens of her narrative. - The novel’s central character, Rose Kingsbury Smith, the real-life inspiration for the character, how Tania went about creating a fictional character that the brilliant real-life female pioneers from the era would be proud of. - The inclusion of real-life historical figures into the story, the freedom that this afforded – how it also served to bring their names and stories to the attention of contemporary society, many members of which may not know of the story/significance of said historical figures. - Not shying away from depicting the barbaric treatment of animals as was typical of the time. Why it was necessary to show this and the difficulties this presented in writing some scenes. - Tania’s journey to becoming a novelist, the contrast of writing styles of that of her advertising strategist career and that of her novel/creative writing one – also delving into how Fiona McIntosh and her Masterclass was instrumental in the shaping of what would become ‘The Eighth Wonder’. - And so much more! Thanks heaps to Tania for appearing on the program, you can pick up your copy of ‘The Eighth Wonder’ here: https://www.penguin.com.au/books/the-eighth-wonder-9781761040733

Former rugby league player, scientist, podcaster and writer, Max Easton, joined me to discuss his debut novel, ‘The Magpie Wing’. Topics discussed include: - Familial themes and dynamics explored throughout the novel, including how unearthing the secrets of a parent(s) can alter our perception of them, sometimes permanently. Also, how those that have passed away can inspire and inform our outlook and beliefs on life. - Max explains his take on the intersection between punk music and the working-class history of rugby league. - The condescension sometimes exhibited by the inner-city/inner-west towards ‘the west’ – how this has maybe become even more evident in the recent lockdown, making the themes explored in the novel, all the more relevant. - Identifying from Western Sydney – how problematic it can be explaining it to others. How contradictory one’s identity can be. How the identity of self and oneself identifying where they come from can be confusing or clash with others from the same area i.e. ‘Mt. Druitt isn’t Marrickville.’ - A gradual acceptance of self, as seen through perhaps Helen, perhaps the most enlightened character of the novel, and her changing outlook – embracing being caught between worlds. - His unique journey and process with writing the novel. Thanks heaps be to Max for chatting with me on the show – you can pick up your copy of ‘The Magpie Wing’ from his publisher, a very cool publisher, Giramondo, here:

https://giramondopublishing.com/books/the-magpie-wing/

Writer, blogger, editor, podcaster/host and novelist, Karyn Sepulveda, joined the program to chat about her novel, ‘The Women’s Circle’: Topics discussed include: - The power of unity – how we all seek out some kind of community. What strength can be found in a community, enabling us all to accomplish great things. How Anna’s narrative of emerging from gaol, and meeting the women’s circle within the novel, exemplifies this. - How objects can be imbued with such power, not necessarily (or not just) magical, but also the power of memories, and other lives, even lives in the past that are running concurrently or transcending time (we got deep!) - The titular women’s circle – the power and ineffable sense of unity that can come from meeting and bonding with like-minded people. Anna’s initial scepticism about it all, perhaps partly informed by her upbringing back in Chile - ‘catholic country – it must be in my DNA’. Along with the dichotomy of beliefs that can exist within us all. - Nora’s techniques, ‘breathing my words’ – how Karyn’s own meditation and meditative endeavours helped shape this character. - The appreciation not only for oneself and the hardships one has gone through, but also the appreciation for those of your fellow person – how this can lead to the foundation of a community spirit, even the betterment of society. Leaving the world better than you found it – and so on. (seriously, we went deep!). - And so, so much more! Thanks so much to Karyn for talking on the program, you can pick up your copy of ‘The Women’s Circle’ from the good folks at Ventura, here: https://www.venturapress.com.au/fiction#/the-womens-circle

Author, writer, editor, S.C. Farrow appeared on the program to discuss her novel, ‘This Is Not A Lie’. Trigger Warning: Drug addiction, homophobia and homophobia-related violence is discussed, among other things. Topics discussed include: - How S.C.’s own youth served to inform what would become ‘This Is Not A Lie’ from the real-life counterparts to the fictional characters in the story, to the Crystal Ballroom era setting framing the novel. - The depiction of heroin-addiction. The different types and levels of addiction depicted and the self-medicating nature of addiction. Along with the prevalent misconception of the ‘rock & roll’ lifestyle, dismissing this addiction as just a part of such a hedonistic lifestyle. - Australia’s of-era homophobia – pervasive even in the supposedly progressive music scene. - Music prevails, music is the best – how music unifies us all, how it is the strongest and most enduring bond between Joel and Harry and their ‘devastating love’. - And so much more! Thanks so much to S.C. for appearing on the program, you can pick up your copy of ‘This Is Not A Lie’ from here: https://www.scfarrow.com/ Be sure to check out and purchase from The Bookshop Darlinghurst. As many Sydney bookshops are only operating limited hours during lockdown, have paused deliveries, or some services. The Bookshop Darlinghurst is operating seven days a week, although they are closed to in-store customers. Their staff are in-store from 9.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday and slightly condensed hours on Saturday and Sunday. They have an excellent website which is very comprehensive for LGBTIQ+ books and DVDs but also includes a curated range of general interest titles. Phone orders are very welcome on 02 9331 1103. You can have your order posted – and it’s free if you spend $75 or more. Or you can collect it from the shop if you prefer. They have regular promotions and are currently offering double loyalty points. Check them out, here: https://www.thebookshop.com.au/

Crime author and novelist J.P. Pomare appeared on the show to discuss his latest novel, ‘The Last Guests’. Topics discussed include: - The inspiration for the novel. - The dual mindset of home-owners – of living in inherently mistrusting times and therefore suspicious of strangers, yet still offering up their place to be used by complete strangers. - Normalised ‘stalking’ behaviour – something that most, if not all, of us have done at some point – stalking people’s social media accounts to get an overall and thorough picture of them – also, the frightening ease in which this is possible. - The various and disparate types of voyeurs exemplified within the novel – the justifications voyeurs give themselves to continue the behaviour. - And so much more! Thanks heaps to JP for appearing on the show – you can pick up ‘The Last Guests’ and all others from his publisher, Hachette, here: https://www.hachette.com.au/jp-pomare/the-last-guests

Comedian, television personality, writer and true-crime podcaster host of ‘Australian True Crime’, Meshel Laurie, appeared on the program to discuss her book – ‘CSI Told You Lies’. TRIGGER WARNING: The discussion including touching on cases, including the tragic manslaughter of cricketer David Hookes and the murder of Melbourne comedian Eurydice Dixon and Aya Maasarwe, along with addressing the ongoing national crisis of violence against women & DV. Topics also discussed include: - Meshel’s earliest forays into true-crime podcasting. The impact and inspiration she found in Sarah Koenig’s ‘Serial’ podcast series. - The titular term ‘CSI Told You Lies’ – coined by Professor ‘Prof’ Stephen Cordner – the lasting negative effect that shows like CSI has had on the judicial system, particularly juries not believing experts etc, along with how these shows have also served to dehumanise a victim, rendering them as just a ‘body on a slab’. - Tales of the luminaries from the VIFM that Meshel has met and formed ongoing connections with through her podcasting. Touching on the astonishing careers (and career-defining cases) of some of them, along with the places in which they orbited and did their thing – including the little-know but historic Flinders Street Extension. - The emergence and importance of true-crime podcasts – offering an unprecedented level of discourse on a national level about the issues and policies enabling, or majorly contributing to, offenders of monstrous crimes. - The dos and donts for those looking to enter into true-crime podcasting. - And a whole ton more! Thanks heaps to Meshel for appearing on the show – you can purchase your copy of ‘CSI Told You Lies’ from Penguin Random House here:

https://www.penguin.com.au/books/csi-told-you-lies-9781760898007

Writer, editor, lecturer and novelist, Dr Josephine Taylor, appeared on the program to discuss her novel, ‘Eye Of A Rook’. Topics include:

Josephine’s real-life experience with vulvodynia – how her experiences formed into creative and academic writings that eventually culminated in ‘Eye Of A Rook’ - and the long, innately tough journey to writing the novel.
The history of modern medicine’s treatment of the condition, from the days of Isaac Baker Brown’s butchering of female patients, to the more contemporary – where much is still not known about vulvodynia (though medical practitioners are perhaps more forthcoming about their not knowing). How the belief that vulvodynia is perhaps a psychosomatic condition has still not been completely eradicated, despite the passage of 100+ years.
Finding a community – how meeting others with vulvodynia helped forevermore shape Josephine’s life. The invaluable support this community provided.
The theme and myriad applications of the question – what is our body telling us?
And so, so much more! Absolutely huge thanks to Josephine for chatting with me on the program about her incredible story and novel. You can purchase ‘Eye Of A Rook’ from the good folks at Fremantle Press here:

https://www.fremantlepress.com.au/products/eye-of-a-rook

Writer, teacher and novelist, Katherine Kovacic, appeared on the program to discuss her latest book – ‘Ms Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries – Just Murdered’ (on publication day no less!). Topics discussed include: - The unique way in which Katherine came by the project. - The writing process for the story – originally based on a screenplay – how Katherine balanced the need to make the novel a faithful adaption of the source material while ensuring her own writerly vision was realised. - How Katherine, an already accomplished historical and true-crime fiction author, went about bringing the 1960s Melbourne to life. From cars (Austin Healey 3000) to the fashion, exquisite dresses and a giant faux cake! - The writing of the Adventuresses’ Club Of The Antipodes – a place where Peregrine might’ve finally found her community, her people. - Fun! Fun found in the writing of Peregrine - the intrepid sleuth. - What, if any, alteration to Katherine’s own writing style were made in order to deliver what the pre-existing fans might’ve wanted/expected. - And so much more! Thanks heaps to Katherine for appearing on the program, you can pick up ‘Just Murdered’ from Allen & Unwin, here: https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/books/fiction/Just-Murdered-Katherine-Kovacic-9781760879396

Writer Hannah Bent, appeared on the program to discuss her debut novel, ‘When Things Are Alive They Hum’. Topics discussed include: - The ten-year writing and gestation process of the novel, balancing real-life with fiction – the difficulties and freedoms this can and did impose on Hannah. - In a novel called ‘A gift’ by Trent Dalton – how Hannah went about passing on the gifts given her by her real-life sister, Camilla, into the book. An appreciation of life, of beauty and so much more. - How she went about making the literary voice of the character of Harper, authentic. - The sibling bond at the core of the story between Marlow and Harper. Its complexities. A Ying and Yang dynamic. - Another main component – a love-story between the two down (up) syndrome characters featured. How real-life institutions have discouraged such loving relationships before and how that both informed and compelled Hannah to write such a one. - A central theme of - respecting the wishes of a loved one, but wanting to do what (one thinks) is best for them, even if that goes against said wishes. - How in a novel full of love, everything is traced back to love. How it endures us through a lifetime and its hardships. - Plus, a whole bunch more! Thanks so much to Hannah for appearing on the program, you can pick up your copy of ‘When Things Are Alive They Hum’ from Ultimo Press here: https://www.ultimopress.com.au/

Writer and novelist, Amanda Hampson, joined the program to talk about her new novel, ‘Lovebirds’. Topics discussed include: - Lifelong, enduring friendships – forged in youth, carried through life – how they can assist us in trying times. How close friends can see the best qualities, parts, and potential of our character that we ourselves cannot – as exemplified in what Ginny sees in central character Lizzie. - The lasting impact of the Vietnam War on those that were conscripted, indelibly altering the life and character of Ray, how that impacted on not only his life, but caused a multi-generational problem within each male member of the family - the trickle-down effect of PTSD. - Animals as supporters – Eric the bird, Vlad the goat – how Amanda’s experiences with goats helped write this component. And the delightfully unexpected response with readers. (Eric has his own Goodreads account!) - Love – how love can still be going strong, even when those that love one another, might barely see one another for years, decades, on end. How love can return to us and guide us during every stage of life, including its end. - And much more! Thanks so much to Amanda for appearing on the program, you can pick up ‘Lovebirds’ and her other novels from Penguin Random House, here:

https://www.penguin.com.au/books/lovebirds-9780143792130

Writer and novelist, Laura Elizabeth Woollett, appeared on the program to discuss her second novel, ‘The Newcomer’. Topics discussed include: - What drew Laura to writing this story, from the real-life case of Janelle Paton, to her own extended stays in Norfolk Island. How she went about corralling her time in the location into her narrative and creating the completely fictional Fairfolk Island. - ‘The Newcomer’ as her first attempt at a crime novel – yet it is not a traditionally told crime novel. Why Laura has chosen to tell the story the way she has. - The mother/daughter relationship at the core of the novel. How the love is there, how it endures. How Laura showed a realistic, sometimes dysfunctional relationship that still had love at its core. - The writing of the titular newcomer, Paulina – challenging the stereotypical ‘perfect’ victim. - Grief – the authentic depiction of Judy’s grief. What can trigger someone grieving. - The sisterly dynamic between Judy and Caro – another prominent relationship in the story. - The inherent pressure of writing a second book, after such a highly-acclaimed debut novel. - And so much more! Thanks heaps to Laura for talking on the show. You can pick up ‘The Newcomer’ and Laura’s other works from the good folks at Scribe Publishing, here: https://scribepublications.com.au/books-authors/books/the-newcomer

https://open.spotify.com/show/7LJJydii5AIlKRZXxwTkcq Former butcher, model, actor and now prolific playwright, Nick Thomson, a.k.a. The Modern Playwright, appeared on the program. Topics discussed include: - Nick’s acting provenance, entwined with his butcher trade – how he always maintained his lifelong passion for acting, while continuing the butcher trade. - How his experiences and some of the skills within his butcher trade have served him with his acting and playwriting. - The jump from acting to playwriting – the real-life story Nick encountered in London that served as the main inspiration for his first play – ‘The Cost Of Love’. - Balancing his current playwriting and acting work, with his endeavour to create a platform for the burgeoning playwriting community to share their plays and maybe have others perform them. - The importance of finding one’s creative community. - And so much more. Thanks heaps to Nick for appearing on the program. Be sure to follow @the_modern_playwright to keep updated on all his many playwriting and acting projects.

actor #acting #playwright #playwriting #theatre #drama #talk #chat #podcast #program #episode #craft

Teacher, writer and novelist R.W.R. McDonald joined me on the program to discuss the follow-up to his hugely-popular debut novel, ‘Nancy Business’. Topics discussed include: - The joys and potential challenges of returning to now beloved characters. How he always envisioned the series and how that’s been going. - Balancing traumatic subject matter (suicide, tragic death, murder etc) with humour, the banter and spirit on the titular Nancys. - Tippy growing older as a character – including engaging in acts of teenage rebellion – the authenticity of the character and how that was achieved. Also, her grief for her father – how the grief never goes away, but changes as time passes. - From a whodunit to a whydunit – along with the difficulties, moral and logistical, faced with trying to depict something as innately chaotic as a bomb-blast. - The media’s misogynistic tendency to describe victims in association with their male partners etc. - And so much more! Thanks so much to R.W.R. for joining me on the program, you can pick up ‘Nancy Business’ and the debut, ‘The Nancys’ from Allen and Unwin, here: https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/books/fiction/Nancy-Business-RWR-McDonald-9781760878870

Former policeman, private investigator, writer and journalist, Duncan McNab, appeared on the show to discuss his latest book ‘The Ruby Princess’ – an exhaustively researched probe into the now-infamous ship and its ill-fated voyage ending in Sydney. Topics discussed include: - The history of luxury cruising, from its humblest of humble origins where cruisers were fuelled by ‘the smell of an oily rag’ to Carnival’s CEO awarding himself a 90,000,000 bonus during the year of the Oceania disaster. - A perennial pattern of illegal acts chronicling the company’s history (quite probably the entire industry) of dumping bilge/grey water and tons of plastic into pristine environments. How this serves as a fine indicator of Carnival and others habitually doing the wrong thing and silencing those that work within their fleet to cover up the truth. - What happened that fateful morning of arrival back to Sydney harbour – decisions made and not made. How communication was key. How almost all of the perfect storm that was the Ruby Princess’s arrival, docking and disembarking of passengers, can be traced back to horrendous communications by parties of well-meaning individuals. - The oft-forgotten plight of the crew remaining on the Ruby Princess – both during and after the disastrous cruise, including being ‘stashed away’ in Port Kembla and being forced by the powers-that-be to wave and smile on-deck when departing from the port. - The Special Inquiry Into The Ruby Princess – how much of a sideshow it became, what were the findings etc. - And so much more! Thanks to Duncan for appearing on the program. You can grab a copy of ‘The Ruby Princess’ and Duncan’s other books here:

https://www.panmacmillan.com.au/9781760982973/the-ruby-princess/

Former journalist and travel writer, Rosie Ayliffe, appeared on the program to discuss her memoir, ‘Far From Home: A True Story Of Death, Loss, And A Mother’s Courage’. TRIGGER WARNING – This memoir is about the tragic murder of Rosie’s twenty-year-old daughter, Mia, during completing her 88-day work scheme in exchange for a 2nd-year visa for Australia. Topics discussed include: - Her life with Mia – how it was mostly just the two of them for much of Mia’s young life – forging the strongest bond (that has endured after Mia’s death). How Mia is still with her. - The hurdles faced with trying to accurately describe such a vivacious person, to capture their spirit, in only a few hundred pages. - The 88-day work scheme – a government scheme that is unregulated – with no vetting of potential employers and allowing for dangerous, oftentimes fatally dangerous, workplace conditions. Also, the practice of debt bondage and passport withholding – enabling Modern Day slavery. The countless people that came forward to Rosie to tell their horrific stories of abuse of every kind, within these environments. - The international attention thrust on Rosie – from communicating with the then-prime minister Malcolm Turnbull, to having the case specifically (wrongly) mentioned by then-U.S. president Donald Trump. - Coming to terms with such an unimaginable loss – how Rosie wanted to use her grief for ‘something’ – and that something potentially leading to major reform within Australia. - Her thoughts on if the situation has, is, improved/improving. Has the Modern Day slavery legislation passed had any positive effect? What needs be done to continue to improve the situation? Thanks so much to Rosie for appearing on the program – please check out these below sites:

https://www.facebook.com/tomandmiaslegacy https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/migrant-workers

(and check out all the others, listed in the back of the book) – when you pick up a copy of ‘Far From Home: A True Story Of Death, Loss, And A Mother’s Courage’ from Penguin Random House, here:

https://www.penguin.com.au/books/far-from-home-9780143796398

Writer and novelist Angela O’Keeffe joined me on the show to talk about her latest (first published) novel, ‘Night Blue’. Topics we discussed include: - Writing from the perspective of a (seemingly) inanimate object, in this case Jackson’s Pollock’s iconic ‘Blue Poles’ painting – the formation of its voice, its perception, and its interaction with its environment and Alyssa (the novel’s other perspective character). - The symbiotic relationship between a creation and its creator. - Perception – how the perception of oneself is forever changing, how our perception of others, of art, also forever changes. - The journey to get to this point in her writing – invaluable advice gifted her along the way and how that has enabled her to embrace writing such a unique and original novel. - And so much more! Thanks again to Angela for appearing on the program, and for Transit Lounge for publishing such a cracking book. You can pick up a copy of ‘Night Blue’ and all other titles from Transit Lounge, here: https://transitlounge.com.au/shop/night-blue/

Writer and debut novelist Sally Bradfield appeared on the program, to discuss her debut novel, ‘Not Quite 30-Love’. Topics discussed include: - Sally’s own career within the world/behind-the-scenes of professional tennis. The decision to write the novel, and how she went about fictionalising it (in order to tell it). - The potential problems faced when blending fictional characters with real life, mega-famous athletes. Whether or not this factored into the writing of the story. - Including the less-glamorous side of the sport and culture she loves. How the warts and all approach was necessary to telling the story she envisioned. - Friendship, enduring and supportive – how friends can remain friends and help them through tough times (even from the opposite side of the world). The real-life origins of the Marine character. - Sally’s decision to go the self-publishing route – how the self-publishing course offered at Writing NSW proved invaluable to the cause. - And so much more!

Huge thanks to Sally Bradfield, be sure to pick up a copy of ‘Not Quite 30-Love’ from here: https://www.notquite30love.com/how-to-buy

Best-selling author and novelist Maya Linnell dropped by on the program to discuss her latest novel, ‘Magpie’s Bend’: Topics discussed include: - The general store that the novel is centred around, how it is emblematic of the Australian small-town spirit. - How her own small-town upbringing and life informs and inspires her work. - How she went about creating the gorgeously realised and distinctly Australian – Bridgefield and its equally distinctly Australian inhabitants. - Families – the support a family provides, enabling members to achieve greatness and overcome trauma. - The potential difficulties faced with writing characters that span across several different books – Maya’s 4-sister-4-book plan and how she’s gone about achieving it. - How attraction, romantic interest and ultimately love, happen, but are woven into a story with many other goings-on. Delaying the kiss between the main characters that the reader so desperately want. (I used a JAWS analogy for this question that might cause you to scratch your head). - And much more! Thanks heaps to Maya for appearing on the program, you can pick up a copy of ‘Magpie’s Bend’ and Maya’s other novels from Allen & Unwin here: https://www.allenandunwin.com/authors/l/maya-linnell

The winner of Allen & Unwin’s prestigious Vogel Award for 2021, Emma Batchelor, dropped by on the show to discuss her Vogel-winning novel, ‘Now That I See You’. TRIGGER WARNING: We touched on a great many topics and issues, including trans/non-binary transitioning, gender identity, use of pronouns, depression, suicide/suicidal ideation etc. Topics discussed include: - Emma’s real-life experience inspiring and framing the story, the inherent complexities and difficulties of writing such a novel and how she went about that. - Love – the double-edged sword – how it can be splendorous and allow us to achieve amazing things, but also, how one can destroy themselves with futilely trying to keep a love or relationship that could be already over. - Communication – the unique way in which the story is told, largely through emails and diary entries – but also exemplify both good and communication between partners and a disintegrating relationship. How communication, much like love, progresses in stages. - Societal misconceptions – exemplified in a few characters, what they include and how they could be changing in real life. - Education – how educating and the desire to learn and generally be better is on the rise. - Mental health – the beautiful hospital analogy – what that means for the story and what it says about mental health in general. - And so much more!

Thanks so much to Emma for appearing on the show, you can pick up your copy of ‘Now That I See You’ here: https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/books/fiction/Now-That-I-See-You-Emma-Batchelor-9781760879761

For a wealth of information on trans/non-binary issues, please check out the excellent site listed below: https://www.transhub.org.au/

Animator, teacher, former Sydney Harbour Bridge tour guide and now novelist, Bernard Gallate, joined the program to delve into his debut novel, ‘The Origin Of Me’. Topics discussed include: - The two different writing styles that the story is told with – from the book within a book (‘My One Redeeming Affliction), historical fiction tale, to that of the present-day setting of the central character, 15-year-old Lincoln Locke’s and his distinctly contemporary story. How Bernard married the two to tell the unique story he wanted to. - Balancing humour with harder topics, from the eugenics and human zoo and travelling oddity show practices that were the norm and depicted in the historical fiction account, to that of homophobia and bullying/associated deplorable behaviour shown in the contemporary setting. How there was still a humour to be found prevalent within the overall story and why this was important. - How his animation provenance and skillset informed, or helped shape, his writing process and style. - How Bernard went about paring back the original colossal 800+ page version. A brutal and gruelling, but necessary process. And how he ensured that the story he wanted to tell was retained within this onslaught of huge edits. - And much, much more! Thanks heaps to Bernard for appearing on the program – you can pick up your copy of ‘The Origin Of Me’ via Penguin Random House, here: https://www.penguin.com.au/books/the-origin-of-me-9780143789628

Contemporary Australian poet, dancer, actor and filmmaker and all-round prolific creative, Richard James Allen, appeared on the show to discuss his latest (and one of his largest) project(s) – starring as lead character, Hans, in a new delightfully weird independent Australian film – ‘Blood-Short Heart’. Topics discussed include: - ‘Blood-Shot Heart’ (briefly) dissected - its influences, from the Giallo sub-genre of Italian horror movies of the 70s, to Shakespearian plays and prose and Greek tragedies, along with a dash of Opera and Operatic stories. - What drew Richard to the project, to take on the role of the lead character, Hans, his process with getting into character and what served to inspire and helped him build the final Hans seen on screen. - Subverting the cliches and tiresome tropes of the psychological thriller genre – how this came about organically through the want of creating a fully-realised, densely-layered character. - The difficulties imposed by his dual role in the production, that of producer as well as lead actor, how he went about successfully balancing the two almost diametrically opposed roles. - A lively discussion on the current state of Australian cinema – in particular, the importance of audiences attending and supporting (and supporting by attending) independent Australian films such as ‘Blood-Shot Heart’. Huge thanks to Richard James Allen for appearing on the program, and for contributing to such a great new Independent Aussie film. You can find out more: Bloodshot Heart at FanForce Films: https://fan-force.com/films/bloodshot-heart/

"Bloodshot Heart: A Cinematic Moment" (FilmInk): https://www.filmink.com.au/bloodshot-heart-a-cinematic-moment/

Today, in yet another first for the program, I was joined by Rod Barton – a former high-ranking Australian Intelligence Officer. Rod appeared on the show to discuss his remarkable life and career that he has now committed to paper with, ‘The Life Of A Spy’. Topics discussed include: - Growing up in a small town with an intriguing Weapons Research Establishment – how that, along with his extensive Boy Scout work and passion for chemistry might’ve aggregated into shaping him to take on such a unique career. - The serendipitous turn of events, applying for a vague-sounding job, that would lead to him becoming a Junior Analyst and ultimately see him pursue a career within the national intelligence sector. - The Yellow Rain/Bee Poo scandal – how that put him out of odds with CIA (being branded by the then-Director of the CIA as ‘perverse and mischievous’) and how a later sharing of information obtained by his work with a Russian defector might’ve restored that somewhat. - Being present at (and contributing to) historical events and meetings, from Bob Hawke’s Kuwait-related outburst, to serving as advisor to Kofi Annan and Hans Blix. - Risking life and limb – from using his boy scout training to try saving the life of a gunshot victim in Somalia, to nearly plunging into the highly-volatile ‘volcano’ in a bombed-out plant facility in Iraq. - His decision to become a whistle-blower with the Camp Cropper story, what led to that and what arose from that. Including major change within the U.S. and Australia’s policies.

Big thanks to Rod for appearing on the program, and for Black Inc books for publishing such a unique and cracking book! You can purchase your copy of ‘The Life Of A Spy – An Education In Truth, Lies and Power’ https://www.blackincbooks.com.au/books/life-spy

Co-founder of publishing house, Busybird Publishing, Blaise Van Hecke, joined me on the program today. Topics discussed include: - A brief history and mission statement for Busybird Publishing, created with her husband. What inspired two photographers (and writers!) to become publishers. - How the COV-19 pandemic and consequent lockdown has affected, if at all, Busybird Publishing. - The ‘Untitled’ anthology – one of the first endeavours that Busybird embarked on (and continue to produce yearly), how it has transformed, including now in these unprecedented times. - The limitless freedom afforded an anthology that doesn’t have a set, or specific theme. - Issue No. 9 – the selection process from the outset and how the final product came to be, along with the disparate stories told, from the harrowing to the heart-warming, and everything in between. - Has Australian storytelling and have the types of stories coming into Busybird changed since COV-19? - What makes a story stand out to Busybird. How all writing is subject to subjectivity and how this should never discourage you as a writer. Thanks heaps to Blaise for appearing on the show and for publishing one of my stories in such a stellar anthology. You can purchase a copy of the Untitled Anthology (9), along with all others here: https://www.busybird.com.au/

In an unprecedented first for the show - documentary filmmaker, criminologist and novelist, Cassandra Austin, chatted with me today, all the way from the U.S. of A., about her 3rd novel, ‘Like Mother’. Topics discussed include: - The novel’s setting, Bennelong, how a small township causes big problems with its treatment of its denizens. How the stain of a tragedy can affect oneself and their treatment in a town, for life. - The decision to set the novel in the 60s and how Cassandra went about bringing it all to life. The subtlety of the referencing and references, illustrating everything nicely for the reader. - The opinions people form of others (and refuse to change). How oftentimes they have a serious disconnect, or inaccuracy to the way people perceive themselves or who they know themselves to be. Delving into this human condition being featured on a grand scale (the town vs the central characters) and a narrowed one (the family members views of each other at the novel’s core). - The common, but seldom depicted familial relationships at the novel’s centre – a mother’s devotion that can, at face value, appear dysfunctional to fanatic, yet throughout the course of the story, show clear elements of true love and devotion. The inherent difficulties in creating such realistic and complex relationships and dynamics. - The pitfalls and challenges faced with the creation of the central character, Louise, both within the writing of her and her admittedly bizarre behaviour and getting it ‘right’. - An overview of Cassandra’s career thus far, including some of the serious writerly trials she’s faced and prevailed over to keep penning her novels. - And much more!

Thank you again to Cassandra for talking to me all the way from the U.S. today, you can pick up your copy of ‘Like Mother’ from the good folks at Penguin Random House, here: https://www.penguin.com.au/books/like-mother-9781760895556#:~:text=Secrets%2C%20lies%20and%20crying%20babies,won't%20leave%20her%20alone.

Author Anna George appeared on the program to discuss her third and latest novel, ‘Tipping’. Subjects discussed include: - The fictional (but unnervingly realistic) setting of Carmichael Grammar – how such a place can be a breeding ground for misogyny and assorted related behaviour leading to cases of sexting. - How parents might be becoming more informed (for good or ill) about the lives of their teenagers, through social media and technology. - The teenage twin brother characters of Jai and Oscar, how their personalities diverge from one another and can also mirror their parents and contemporary society’s, along with what it means to raise teenage boys. The challenges it presents and the importance of doing it right. - The research – the work of (fictional, but again, very realistic) Dr. Vic Cato and the strategies she implements to address this behaviour – the research that Anna completed, and how effective it is being used or not used within real-life school environments (i.e. Harvard). - Writing from the perspectives of the Jess and Liv, the two mothers from the rival factions, how Anna resonated with both and conveyed that to the reader. - Writing from Duncan’s perspective, the decision to include his perspective in the novel and what challenges or difficulties that presented in the writing. - Unconscious bias and techniques to alter this – how change, very much like that depicted in ‘Tipping’ can and has happened in real-life industries and institutions, complete with case studies. - Hope, the feeling of hope imbued within ‘Tipping’ – and how there can be hope for societal change now and even more in the future. Huge thanks to Anna for chatting with me about ‘Tipping’. You can purchase it and her other novels from Penguin Random House, here: https://www.penguin.com.au/books/tipping-9781760897789

Writer, creative writing teacher and now novelist, Belinda Lyons-Lee, joined the program to discuss her debut novel, ‘Tussaud’. Topics discussed include: - Her fascination with the era and how it fuelled this daringly imaginative novel. - Writing a story with real-life historical figures, the basis for which her creativity catapulted from. - Research – including the exquisitely described building of the automaton, Marie’s hands becoming her hands and so on. - The juggling act of including just enough the research – if it’s supposed to be the ‘wallpaper’ of the narrative, what about if the of-era wallpaper was riddled with arsenic? - Delving into themes featured in the story – the creation of artificial life and playing god, the moral quagmire that elicits and the motivations the character Marie felt in the need to ‘protect’ her latest creation. - Loneliness as a driving force for a character. - Penning a decidedly gothic tale that nevertheless featured the realistic oppression of women of the time, exemplified in several of the male characters. Including the oft used technique of declaring someone to be a ‘hysterical woman’ and carting them off to an asylum to do away with them. - How Belinda’s career has in some ways informed her writing, the appreciation for the human condition and how that has enabled her to create such densely-layered characters. - And much more! Thanks so much to Belinda for appearing on the program, you can purchase a copy of ‘Tussaud’ from her brilliant publisher, Transit Lounge, here: https://transitlounge.com.au/shop/tussaud/

Journalist and author Shannon Molloy joined the program to discuss his truly devastating memoir, ‘Fourteen’. Please be aware that this episode delved into some traumatic and confronting issues. TRIGGER WARNING: suicide, self-harm, homophobia, violence. Topics discussed include: - Yeppoon – the town setting of the story – its masculine ecosystem, what can cause its young males to go angry and what can arise from this pervasive anger and aggression. - The culture of homophobia, the lack of positive and realistic gay role models and the ubiquitous derision of gay people (i.e. offensive caricature characters in popular television shows/movies) and how this served to stoke up fear and hatred among young men. - The institutionalised normalisation of homophobia and homophobic acts i.e. teachers not correcting the use of slurs and, conversely, the dedicated teachers and professionals who saved Shannon’s life with their kindness and devotion to him. - The darkness and the light - the fashion show and Brooke Satchwell’s selfless instinctual act that had such a positive lifelong impact on Shannon. - And so much more. I have never had such an emotional interview before. This book, Shannon’s story and Shannon in general got me right in the feels and soul. If this episode has affected you in any way, please contact: https://www.lifeline.org.au

Founder, producer, host and all-round brilliant human, Dani Vee, of the ‘Words And Nerds Podcast’ discussed with me her incredible, hundreds-episodes-strong program and related accomplishments. Topics we delved into include: - What drew us to podcasting and interviewing, what did we want to focus on, thematically, with our shows? - Funny stories with guests/interviewees encountered along the way. - Some book titles that have blown us away this year. - Hopes/dreams/aspirations for the future of the shows. - What we’re up to, chip-chipping away with our own big writing projects. - One question of mine that I thought was a good one – but never expected to be directed back towards me! - And much, much more.

Thanks so much to Dani for chatting with me on this epic mash-up episode. Be sure to get stuck into the Words And Nerds Podcast program available for your listening pleasure on Spotify and Soundcloud now!

Sydney Writers’ Festival’s new artistic director, Michael Williams, appeared on the program to discuss the upcoming 2021 Sydney Writers’ Festival, with its timely theme ‘Within Reach’. Topics covered include: - His appointment to the position in the midst of COV-19 lockdown, how that shaped his start to the role and ultimately the organising of the festival. - This year’s theme, ‘Within Reach’ and how the festival is underpinned with a strong sense of hope and what that means moving forward. - What is it about writing and writers that can unite a society and assist them in such dark, unprecedented times. - What he hopes for festival-goers to take away from the festival. - And much more! Thank you to Michael for chatting on the show. Here’s the link to SWF’S 2021 Program line-up, get stuck in quick to not miss out: https://www.swf.org.au/festivals/festival-2021/

Writer, editor and now novelist Seth Robinson joined the program to talk about his debut novel, ‘Welcome To Bellevue’. Topics touched on (among others) include: - Creating the titular town – from the detailed geography to the prodigious cast of colourful characters and the challenge imposed with the weaving of the two. - His broad and eclectic mix of influences – can Bellevue be interpreted as purgatory in the Christian sense? How ancient religious parables can serve as inspiration for contemporary stories. - Inclusion of raw and poignant moments in such a surreal setting, how Seth went about including these without them seeing contrived or incongruous – the importance of getting a character ‘right’. - ‘It takes a village to raise a novel’ – how the story was invaluably improved thanks to the committed efforts of other like-minded writerly souls at Grattan Street Press who shared his vision. - How such a unique publishing house might be a promising sign of things to come for writers. - And much more! You can purchase Seth’s books and other titles from Grattan Street Press’s website, here: https://grattanstreetpress.com/fiction/

Writer, editor, journalist, Mark Mordue appeared on the program to discuss his biography of iconic musician Nick Cave – The Young Nick Cave ‘Boy On Fire’. Topics discussed include: - Mark’s original John Milton/Paradise Lost framework for the biography, what caused him to pare it back into a more conventional biography and how he went about doing so - The decision to create the ‘immersive’ experience for the reader, while keeping himself out of the narrative. - His staggering amount of research and how that was woven into the story in order to bring historic venues like St Kilda’s Crystal Ballroom to life – warts and heroin all. - Cave’s influences beyond those of musical greats like Bowie and Iggy Pop. - The inspiration of Ned Kelly and the ‘outlaw’, how Dostoevsky’s ‘Crime and Punishment’ has had a lasting impact on Cave and his work and might be related to connecting with his father. - The loss of Nick Cave’s father, Colin and how that shaped much of his life and work and how Dawn Cave was equally crucial in the shaping of her son’s future career. - And much more! https://www.harpercollins.com.au/9781460713211/boy-on-fire/

Sydney-based film director Tom Danger joined the show today to discuss his 2nd (and latest) feature, ‘Sweethurt’. Topics discussed include: - His collaboration with fellow director Logan Webster and taking the plunge with a coming-of-age comedy after a horror debut. - The hurdles and challenges faced during the making of this movie – including being denied essential lenses right before shooting. - Working with people vs working with animals (Winston the goat!) and all the madness in between. - Looking to the future – the current status of ‘Sweethurt’. - And much more! Huge thanks to Tom Danger for appearing on the show. You can learn more about ‘Sweethurt’ via their page: https://www.facebook.com/SweethurtMovie

Canadian/Armenian/Australian writer, essayist and novelist, Ashley Kalagian Blunt joins the program to discuss her latest creative non-fiction book, ‘How To Be Australian: An Outsider’s View On Life & Love Down Under’.

Some topics we discussed include:

Her original culture shock experience of living in Inner-West Sydney, from people walking around barefoot, to cockroaches, funny coffee names and weird-addresses, and how all this served to be a baptism by fire into the oft-bizarre way of life for the average inner-city-dwelling Aussie.
Connecting with the Armenian community of Western Sydney – how much of an unexpected surprise and invaluable experience it turned out to be, not only then, but in the shaping of ‘My Name Is Revenge’.
Including the trials and tribulations Ashley’s marriage faced by moving halfway across the world, and the decision to place these less bright moments in the book.
The ineffability of an Australian identity and how there is no one Australian identity but countless ones, all existing together – how the more you engage, the more you become Australian.
Being knocked over by a man on an esky-modified loveseat, a Kookaburra stealing her sausage roll, the life-changing experience of witnessing an Indigenous burlesque performer’s show – and much, much more!

Check out the upcoming courses of Writing NSW at: https://writingnsw.org.au/whats-on/courses/

You can purchase Ashley’s book from the publisher, Affirm Press directly here: https://affirmpress.com.au/

Former journo turned media consultant, Dan Kaufman, joins the program to discuss his debut published novel, ‘Drowning In The Shallows’.

Some topics covered include:

Authenticity of voice, ‘writing what you know’ – how your lived experience can serve as a fine springboard to write a substantial fictional story, and where does one then draw the line (if ever?).
How the humour prevalent throughout the novel still could not hide the undercurrent of profound loneliness felt by the main character – and how his disastrous attempts at dating can be considered a realistic depiction of real-life contemporary dating within Sydney.
Tenderness in the weirdest times – how even in settings and situations revolving exclusively around sleazy sex, one’s wholesome, loving spirit and desires can prevail.
Writing for yourself – how liberating it can be to write a novel assuming that it will never get published, or read by anyone else but yourself.
And much more!

You can purchase ‘Drowning In The Shallows’ from Dan’s publisher, Melbourne Books, here: https://melbournebooks.com.au/products/drowning-in-the-shallows

This episode has thriller writer, J.P. Pomare, talking about his new, veritable page-turner, ‘Tell Me Lies’. Topics discussed include (Trigger Warning): - Psychology and the tightrope balance of a psychologist’s keeping professional duty and personal well-being/safety in check. - Contemporary issues woven into the story and novel – such as the new and inherently traumatic job of a Social Media Content Moderator and the oftentimes malicious world of online gaming/streaming (i.e. doxing/swatting). - Familial themes – what limitless lengths one is willing to go to out of a sense of familial obligation, from trying to ‘save’ ones family to trying to destroy another’s out of revenge etc. - J.P.’s writing process and how it has changed, along with the challenges he has faced with writing his new novel. - And much more.

Sydney-based filmmaker/editor/poet/writer Anthony J. Langford appears on the program to talk about his latest novel, ‘Lone Wolf World’. This is an episode that delves into some of the darker depths of contemporary society and the human condition. Though violence and confronting matters are not discussed in graphic detail, listener caution is still advised. Topics discussed include: - The process of entering into the mind of such a disturbed individual and maintaining their narrative voice throughout the length of an ever-changing novel. - Opining on how individuals come to commit heinous acts and how much society is responsible for the shaping of these individuals and if they can be prevented. - The pervasive feeling of isolation in a pandemic-ridden world and how it could be contributing to the making of outcasts. - The need to address and depict such characters, and what purpose they can serve to the potential betterment of real-life society. - And much more! ‘Lone World World’ and all of Anthony’s many other works are available for purchase via his website: https://www.anthonyjlangfordbooks.com/

This episode welcomes international bestselling author Fiona McIntosh, as she discusses her latest novel – ‘The Champagne War’. Topics covered with Fiona include: delving into her exhaustive research process and how she goes about weaving her prodigious amount of research into a lean, character-driven narrative, along with difficulties she faced with depicting war and its many atrocities and her sharing insight into her writing process. Fiona also candidly discussed her greatest challenge faced as a writer - which happened during the writing of this novel.

Best-selling Australian novelist Monica McInerney joins the program to discuss her latest novel, ‘The Godmothers’. We delve into all things familial, from how those lost are remembered by those that remain, to how lies are sometimes kept to spare us from devastating truths and much more. Monica also shares a story about a recent trial in her writing career.