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Join us on a journey through the trials and triumphs of publishing, as Cameron Capello opens up about the surreal moments of recognition as a content creator. We talk about the emotional rollercoaster of reviews, the evolution of familial support, and how social media platforms like BookTok play a crucial role in building confidence and community. Get a glimpse into the creative process behind "I'll Look for You Everywhere," and enjoy a playful session of casting its characters.
Together, we explore the power of manifesting dreams and how the unlikeliest journeys, like Cameron's transformation into a TikTok sensation, redefine what it means to be a modern-day author.
I'll Look For You Everywhere
Magdalen Savoy has just finished her first year of university at Oxford, where she has finally built a life for herself away from the demons she has done everything to try to forget. But, when she can no longer ignore the growing pile of invitations to her sister’s wedding she must leave her feelings behind and return to Italy.
Theo Sinclair was the golden boy of Chivasso: athletic, intelligent, too suave for his own good. So, when he cut all ties and boarded a 5 a.m. flight to Connecticut seven years ago, no one could understand what had pushed him to leave.
Pulled back to their small Italian hometown for the wedding, Magdalen and Theo soon realize they’re no longer the children they once were. In the winding streets of Chivasso and under the burning summer sun, there are only so many corners for the two to hide behind. Confronted with the ghosts of their pasts, they must face both the growing tension between them and the long buried secrets that threaten to tear their worlds apart – secrets that could separate them for ever . . .
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Join us in 'The Writer's Inn'
This is a space that Dorothy (Koomson) and Nadine (Matheson) have set up so you can have a bit of company, fun and support while you write this November. We may extend this beyond that, but we’re just focusing on November right now. We wanted an alternative to the other November-based writing space where you can drop by as needed and start, continue or finish that writing project you’ve been meaning to get to. Want to write in company? This is the place to do it.
Join Us.
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Welcome to a special bonus episode of The Conversation. This episode which is also available to watch on YouTube celebrates Black History Month and Black crime writers.
Join us as we bring together the brilliant minds of Dorothy Koomson, Amen Alonge and Leye Adenle for a conversation that's as enlightening as it is entertaining. Dorothy shares her fascinating journey from crafting romantic comedies to weaving emotional thrillers, while Amen reveals how a lifelong passion for crime fiction ignited his writing career and Leye adds an extra layer of intrigue, reflecting on how his Nigerian heritage influences his narrative choices and fuels his storytelling excitement.
In this episode we laugh, discuss and answer audience questions such as 'What draws a writer to crime fiction?', and 'how does one's background shape the way these thrilling stories unfold?'
With humor and camaraderie, we offer a glimpse into the minds behind your favorite crime stories and the vibrant, diverse voices shaping the future of the genre.
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This week I'm in conversation with bestselling author Russ Thomas , offering a glimpse into his juggling act of writing and balancing "proper" jobs to cover bills. Russ sheds light on the realities of publishing and the notorious "second book syndrome"—a struggle known to many authors. Listen in for tips on setting daily writing goals, the challenges of weaving complex themes, and why every book feels like a challenging yet rewarding child.
It's a candid look at the hurdles and triumphs faced by writers at all stages. chat uncovers the inherent drive to write, despite the struggle, the unexpected joy found in bookselling and Russ's latest book, in the DS Adam Tyler series, Sleeping Dogs.
Sleeping Dogs
THE LIES OF THE PAST . . .
When an anonymous tip lands on his desk, DS Adam Tyler is intrigued in spite of himself. The disappearance of a young mother twenty-four years ago was big news, but the case was never solved – this tantalizing new lead is something he simply can’t ignore. But the letter has set in motion a dangerous chain of events, and Tyler’s search for the truth soon leaves him fighting for his life.
. . . LIVE IN THE PRESENT
With Tyler out of action, DC Mina Rabbani must step up to lead the Cold Case Review Unit in his absence, retracing Tyler’s steps and uncovering his secrets to figure out what he was working on. But as she begins to put the pieces together, the case starts to hit frighteningly close to home. Without DS Tyler to protect her, Mina realizes that now she’s the one with hard choices to make.
And this time she’s on her own.
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What happens to the children who are left behind when their parents seek a new life in a distant land? This haunting question forms the heart of a conversation with author Anne Hawk, who joins us to share insights from her novel "Pages of The Sea". Together, we unravel the stories of the Windrush generation, focusing on the emotional complexities of family separation and reunion, with a personal lens drawn from our own Caribbean roots. As we reflect on these narratives, we emphasize the necessity of amplifying Black authors' voices, ensuring their stories resonate beyond the confines of Black History Month.
Anne's personal journey, marked by perseverance and unexpected twists, serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring writers. From navigating the redrafting process to the surprising turn of events leading to publication, her experience underscores the importance of self-belief and community support.
Pages of the Sea
After her mother sails from the Caribbean to England to find work, Wheeler is left with her two older sisters, three cousins and two aunts.She couldn’t feel more alone. She longs for her mother to send for her as promised. Everyone tells her to just wait. But for how long?
In the meantime, she has to learn to get along as best she can, exploring the island with Donelle, making kites with Bounce, following the carnival through the town. But most of all she must avoid the threat of her cousin Floyd.
Set during the mid-1960s on a Caribbean Island, issues of family, migration and abandonment hang over Wheeler and her unknowable future.
A story of sisterhood, family secrets, and the sacrifices of love. No novel comes as close to this heart-breaking evocation of what it’s like to be a child left behind.
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My conversation with author Louise Swanson takes a deep dive into the realm of storytelling and the realities of the writing industry. This episode is a candid testament to the financial realities faced by writers, the comfort that comes from having an agent, and the evolving definitions of success in an ever-changing industry.
Louise shares her insights and experiences, offering a mirror to anyone who wonders about perseverance in the absence of a book deal and the art of connecting authentically with readers. And of course we talk about Louise's new book, Lights Out.
Whether you're an emerging writer or a seasoned author, join us for an engaging discussion that promises to leave you inspired and equipped with insights to navigate the creative path ahead.
Lights Out
When darkness is everywhere, nowhere is safe...
A state of emergency has been declared in the UK. From now on, at 8pm every night, all electricity cuts out.
The Government promises it's a temporary measure. They promise they are always thinking of your safety.
But for Grace, the darkness is anything but safe.
Someone is coming into her house under its cover every night while she lies in bed upstairs, too terrified to sleep. Someone who knows her past, who knows why she has more reason to fear the dark than most...
And every morning she wakes to a new message from the intruder:
I have you in my sights. Love, The Night
But how can Grace escape, when there's nowhere safe left to hide?
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We welcome Elvin James Mensah, author of "Small Joys," into our conversation, where we unravel the complexities of pursuing a writing career without the traditional backing of family support. Elvin's insights into turning personal narratives into fiction reveal the delicate balance between family expectations and creative aspirations. Together, we share the universal struggle of finding one's voice in the face of cultural and familial pressures, and the comedic irony that comes when family members, once skeptical, become your biggest cheerleaders after you find success.
Our episode goes further to address the unpredictable nature of the publishing industry and the inevitable rejections writers face. Join us for a heartfelt discussion that promises both inspiration and camaraderie for writers and readers alike.
Small Joys
‘Could I one day inspire happiness in others, the same way he seemed to do in me?’
Harley is a young queer Black man struggling to find his way in mid-noughties Britain. Returning home to Dartford, having just dropped out of an undergraduate course in music journalism, he is wracked by feelings of failure and inadequacy. Standing in the local woods one day, on the verge of doing something drastic and irreversible, his hand is stayed by a stranger: a tall husky guy who emerges from the bushes holding a pair of binoculars.
Muddy is an ebullient Mancunian whose lust for his own life makes others feel better by association. A keen birdwatcher, rugby fanatic and Oasis obsessive, he quickly becomes a devoted and loyal friend to Harley who finds his enthusiasm infectious and his dimples irresistible. In no time at all, they become inseparable. Harley starts to think that life may be worth living after all, while Muddy discovers things about himself that the lads down the rugby club may struggle to understand.
But when figures from the past threaten to plunge Harley back into the depths of depression, his only hope of survival is Muddy and the small joys they create together.
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Ever wondered how authors navigate their identities, genres and maintaining a writing career? Join me in conversation with Harriet Evans, the Sunday Times best-selling author, renowned for her heartwarming family dramas like 'A Place for Us' who is stepping into new territory with her latest work. Under the pen name Harriet F. Townsend, she unveils a thrilling twist in her career with 'D is for Death', a captivating cozy crime murder mystery.
From the complexities of the murder mystery genre to the challenges of ghostwriting for celebrities, we cover it all.
D is for Death
1935. Dora's on the first train to London, having smuggled herself out of the house in the middle of the night to escape her impending marriage. But unluckily for her, Dora's fiance is more persistent than most and follows.
As Dora alights at Paddington station, she is immediately forced to run from the loathsome Charles Silk-Butters. She ducks into the London Library to hide and it is there, surrounded by books, where she should feel most safe, that Dora Wildwood stumbles across her first dead body.
Having been thrown into the middle of a murder scene, it's now impossible to walk away. Indeed, Dora's certain she will prove an invaluable help to the gruff Detective Inspector Fox who swiftly arrives on the scene. For as everyone knows, it's the woman in the room who always sees more than anyone else: and no one more so than Dora herself...
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Books are meant to be read, not banned! 10,000 books were banned in the last US academic year. Read the Guardian article and remember to buy a banned book and share it with a friend.Support the show
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What does it take to transform from a humble bookseller into a Sunday Times best-selling author? Join me as I chat with B P Walter, who shares his extraordinary journey and the realities behind the success story.
B P Walter candidly opens up about the book industry’s often-hidden complexities, from navigating early rejections to understanding the crucial role of supermarkets in a book’s success. We recount both the thrill and the anxiety surrounding book launches, especially during the unprecedented times of the pandemic. Walter’s reflections on working in bookstores and the unique experiences that shaped his career provide an eye-opening look into the literary world’s inner workings.
Listeners will particularly enjoy hearing about B P Walter’s prolific year, with the release of three distinct books, including his latest novel, 'The Garden Party' and his foray into the horror genre with “Scuttle".
Scuttle
Your worst nightmare is about to come true…When an overnight camping trip in the woods on Halloween night goes wrong, and a girl ends up dead with what looks like animal wounds, the whole neighbourhood is shocked.
How did it happen?
And more importantly what was it that killed her?
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What if achieving literary success doesn't erase self-doubt? Best-selling author Amanda Prowse joins us to share her remarkable journey from the streets of East London to becoming the writer of 35 books. Despite her impressive accomplishments, Amanda opens up about her ongoing struggle with imposter syndrome, revealing how her working-class background and challenging education initially made her question her potential. Her story is a powerful reminder that perseverance and passion can break down even the most stubborn barriers.
Amanda and I explore the unexpected kindness within the publishing industry and the camaraderie that exists among authors. From the emotional depth of her new novel "Swimming to Lundy" to the humorous moments of discussing preferences for gravy on chips, Amanda's experiences offer a rich tapestry of insights into the writing process and personal growth. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a fan of her work, this conversation promises to inspire and uplift, proving that success is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
Swimming to Lundy
Tawrie Gunn feels stuck. She’s spent her whole life in the same seaside town with her beloved Nana and grief-stricken mum, all of them still reeling in different ways from the tragic loss of Tawrie’s dad at sea. Desperate for a change, she challenges herself to take up wild swimming—every morning, no excuses, from March till September.Daring to take the plunge with the ‘Peacock Swimmers’, Tawrie feels alive in a way she’s never known. Suddenly it seems she might be able to step outside her comfort zone after all and let life surprise her—perhaps even dream of a future beyond the shores of Ilfracombe? Especially when, one day, she spots a man in a pink linen shirt who seems as eager for a new start as she does.
But it turns out taking risks on land is a little different from wading into the sea. Can Tawrie face her fears head-on and find her way to happiness? She knows it’s never too late to pursue your hopes and dreams, but it might be easier said than done…
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*The Best of Season 2 of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson - Part 2*
This week, we're bringing you the best of my conversations with some of the most talented and celebrated authors in the industry. Join me as I sit down with award-winning and best-selling authors Femi Kayode (ep.41), Harriet Tyce (ep.62), Jo Callaghan (ep.68), Kellye Garrett (ep.71), Kia Abdullah (ep.36) and S.J. Watson (ep.64)
What if launching your debut novel during a global pandemic turned out to be a surreal rollercoaster ride? How do repeated rejections shape resilience and career decisions in the long run? We'll share personal stories that highlight the importance of persistence and the valuable lessons learned when goals are reassessed. Together, we’ll explore how these experiences ultimately pave the way for success, touching on the unexpected boosts from platforms like BBC2's "Between the Covers" and the transformative influence of BookTok in the modern publishing landscape.
We also discuss the pressures authors face in a rapidly evolving industry, the value of community support, the significance of celebrating small wins and how to manage unexpected success that is more than you could imagine.
Don't miss this engaging and insightful episode, showcasing the highlights of Season 2. Tune in and listen to the wisdom and experiences of these remarkable authors.
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*The Best of Season 2 of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson - Part 1*
This week, we're bringing you the best of my conversations with some of the most talented and celebrated authors in the industry. Join me as I sit down with award-winning and best-selling authors S.A. Cosby (ep.58), Tim Glister (ep.56), Dorothy Koomson (ep.54) , Derek Thompson (ep.38), Erin Kelly (ep.63) and Saima Mir (ep.74).
In this special episode, we dive deep into the world of writing, discussing everything from the sting of rejection to the art of creating unforgettable characters. We also cover the importance of book covers, the challenge of being pigeonholed as an author, and the realities of book deals and advances. You'll also hear about some of the most interesting (and sometimes unexpected) questions these authors have faced at book festivals.
Don't miss this engaging and insightful episode, showcasing the highlights of Season 2. Tune in and listen to the wisdom and experiences of these remarkable authors.
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What if you could turn the highs and lows of your writing journey into your most compelling material? Join Nadine Matheson in the season finale of the Conversation Podcast as she welcomes her mentor, award-winning author Sarah Hilary. Together, they unlock the secrets behind Sarah's bestselling book, "Someone Else’s Skin," and discuss the emotional rollercoaster of the publishing world. From the excitement of auctions to the challenges of balancing vulnerability with confidence, Sarah's story is one of grit and triumph.
Sarah and Nadine explore the crucial role of perseverance, the transformative power of storytelling, the heartfelt importance of preserving personal narratives and Sarah Hilary's new book, Sharp Glass.
Sharp Glass
The last thing she remembers is standing outside the empty house. One she was employed to pack, ready for removal. Her job is her life. It is her compulsion to take care of an owner’s precious possessions, to do whatever it takes to help them move on. Now she is cold, dirty, damp, trapped in its cellar with no chance of escape, miles from anywhere. His prisoner.
And then he returns.
Her captor believes she holds the answers to why a young girl was murdered a year ago. He refuses to let her go until she reveals her secrets. But he doesn’t know she has hidden depths, and an anger she works hard to control.
The battle lines are drawn. They are the only two people who can solve the mystery of the dead girl. But when the truth is revealed, whose life will shatter?
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What happens when the fear of failure keeps you from pursuing your true passion? Leeanne O'Donnell opens up about her fascinating journey from documentary filmmaking and psychotherapy to finally embracing her dream of becoming a writer and the release of her debut novel, Sparks of Bright Matter.
We promise you'll gain insights into the struggles of overcoming perfectionism and the deeply personal nature of sharing creative work. Leanne's story covers her early ambitions, her diverse career path, and her reflections on deferring adulthood, all while providing invaluable lessons for anyone on their own creative journey.
Sparks of Bright Matter
When ambitious apprentice chemist and secret alchemist Peter Woulfe is tasked with caring for a mysterious illustrated book, the Mutus Liber, he quickly realises that the grimy underworld of Georgian London is even more dangerous than he first believed.
Soon the book is stolen by the light-fingered Sukie and Peter finds himself being pursued by threatening men who are willing to do anything to get the book back. Where in teeming London might Sukie be found? Why is Peter so enthralled by her? And what is it about the Mutus Liber that is so enticing? As the search for the book becomes an urgent game of cat and mouse, it seems that the key to Peter's present dilemma might only be found in half-remembered events from his childhood, and then further back still, in the mists of Irish myth.
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Join us as we sit down with author Ed James to talk about his multifaceted publishing journey—from traditional to self-publishing and everything in between—as well as his candid thoughts on embracing messy first drafts and the painstaking process of rewriting entire novels.
Discover strategies for balancing work-life commitments while maintaining creativity, and understand the necessity of treating writing as a business with structured planning, effective marketing, and targeted advertising. Don't miss this episode for a blend of practical tips and inspiring insights into the disciplined yet passionate life of a writer.
With Soul So Dead
The chase is on – and time is running out.
Holly Fenwick thought she had left her nightmare behind.
Twelve years ago, she narrowly escaped the clutches of a brutal serial killer.
Now, while she films a documentary in Eyemouth in the Scottish Borders, to recover from her ordeal and rebuild her life, she spots a figure eerily similar to her former captor. She rushes in, only to find no trace of the man but a chaotic crime scene – and a missing woman.
Before he was a cop, DI Rob Marshall worked as a criminal profiler on Holly’s case. Now based over the border in Scotland in the new Behavioural Sciences Unit in Gartcosh, Marshall joins the investigation on his old patch, but all he has are questions.
Was Holly's return to the crime scene a mere coincidence? Is her story the figment of a traumatised mind? As the investigation unfolds, Holly is forced to confront her deepest fears and the possibility that the killer has marked her as his next target. And Marshall must consider the possibility his absolute truth might not be so certain.
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What happens when a maternity leave transforms a hobby into a bestselling career? Join us as we sit down with Sunday Times and New York Times Bestselling author Ruth Ware, the mastermind behind "The Woman in Cabin 10," and uncover her fascinating journey from aspiring writer to literary sensation. Ruth opens up about the childhood conversations that ignited her passion, the determination that propelled her second book to success, and the unique challenges of transitioning from YA to adult fiction. This episode offers an inspiring look at how personal experiences and the right timing can lead to unexpected triumphs and her new novel, One Perfect Couple.
One Perfect Couple
Five beautiful couples.
One deadly game.
Who will escape alive?
Lyla Santiago has spent months working on a research project that could be the key to getting a permanent job in her field.
So, she can’t really drop everything to go to a desert island with her actor boyfriend Nico to film One Perfect Couple, a new reality TV show that Nico is sure will lead to his big break – can she?
Two weeks later, Lyla finds herself boarding a boat to an isolated luxury resort in the Indian Ocean.
The rules of the game are simple. Ten strangers have to survive together on the island - and the last couple standing scoops the prize.
There will be sun, sea, laughs and plenty of flirting.
What could possibly go wrong?
But when a huge tropical storm cuts them off from everything, the group must band together.
As tensions run high and fresh water runs low, Lyla realises that someone is playing this game for real – and they'll stop at nothing to win.
Ten might have arrived, but who will survive to the end?
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Ever wondered what it takes for a dream to withstand the test of time? Author Michael Wood joins me, Nadine Matheson, on the Conversation to share his two-decade-long writing journey. Despite discouraging advice and numerous rejections, Michael's story is a testament to resilience and perseverance. We talk about his early days in journalism, the trials of being an introvert at book festivals, the changing landscape of publishing finally welcomed his work.
Listeners will get a sneak peek into my latest book, "The Kill List," soon to be released in North America. I'll also share some personal updates, including my ongoing efforts to support my parents in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. Michael and I have a light-hearted discussion about our excitement for the "Beetlejuice" sequel and reminisce over iconic props from the original movie. Amidst the laughter, we touch upon the emotional highs and lows of receiving feedback, the importance of encouragement in realizing unseen potential and his new novel, Vengeance is Mine.
Vengeance is Mine
A GRUESOME MURDERTwenty years ago, a young girl vanished from a quiet street in Northumberland. When her body was found in an attic close to her home, the whole neighbourhood was shocked.
A DEVASTATING SECRET
For her entire life, Dawn Shephard has never known her father. But when news breaks that a murderer is about to be released from prison, her mother has no choice but to reveal his identity.
THE ORIGINS OF EVIL
As Dawn digs into her father’s history, she lands on a chilling connection. And the closer she gets to the truth, the more dangerous it becomes. Just how far will she go to discover if a killer’s blood runs through her veins?
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Support '#RaiseTheRoof - A GoFundMe Campaign
On 1 July 2024 my parents home in Bellevue South, Carriacou, Grenada suffered devastating damage as a result of Hurricane Beryl. I was with my parents, Joslyn and Jeff Matheson, when the destructive hurricane ripped off my parents roof, blew out windows and destroyed furniture, and personal belongings. This was the most frightening experience of our lives as we barricaded ourselves in a room as the roof, doors and windows were destroyed by the 150mph winds. It’s a miracle that our home is still standing. You can see videos of the devastating damage on my social media pages.
We’re now commencing the clear up and the slow path to recoSupport the show
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Ever wondered how a former politician transitions into a successful crime novelist? Today, I, Nadine Matheson, am joined in conversation with the the multifaceted Alan Johnson, who shares his compelling story from the political arena to becoming an acclaimed author, driven by the encouragement of a pivotal teacher. We talk about his new novel, 'Death On The Thames' and our shared love of libraries.
Throughout our conversation, we touch upon the intricate craft of writing detective fiction, the nuances between memoirs and novels, and the historical significance of real criminal cases that inspire gripping narratives. We explore the emotional journey of writing about personal experiences, the challenges of the publishing industry, and the unique intersections between public service and personal aspirations. Don't miss this episode filled with rich anecdotes, insights, and the fascinating convergence of politics and literature.
Death On The Thames
THERE'S BLOOD ON THE WATER. NO ONE IS SAFE...
1999. A young Detective Constable Louise Mangan crosses the Thames one misty morning in pursuit of a killer. She finds a tranquil community on a leafy island close to Hampton Court Palace, but soon realises that all is not as it seems. There is something evil at play in this quiet suburb, and this junior detective's questions seem only to scratch the surface.
Twenty years later, a horrific fire brings Detective Chief Superintendent Mangan back to that same island. Soon, she discovers that murder was just a drop in these dark waters.
The river runs deep, and the tide is rising at last. Will the truth rise with it?
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On 1 July 2024 my parents home in Bellevue South, Carriacou, Grenada suffered devastating damage as a result of Hurricane Beryl. I was with my parents, Joslyn and Jeff Matheson, when the destructive hurricane ripped off my parents roof, blew out windows and destroyed furniture, and personal belongings. This was the most frightening experience of our lives as we barricaded ourselves in a room as the roof, doors and windows were destroyed by the 150mph winds. It’s a miracle that our home is still standing. You can see videos of the devastating damage on my social media pages.
We’re now commencing the clear up and the slow path to recovery which is hindered by the fact that it’s also rainy season which means that theSupport the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee ☕️! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comThreads: @nadinematheson
Facebook: nadinemathesonbooks
Instagram: @queennads
TikTok: @writer_nadinematheson
BlueSky: @nadinematheson.bsky.social -
Send us a text
Bestselling and award winning author and journalist Saima Mir joins me, Nadine Matheson, in a candid, heartfelt conversation as we delve into the importance of inclusivity, representation, and the need for creative freedom. We also share personal stories about character development, the unexpected joys it brings, and the vital role of a robust support system in an author's personal and professional growth.
Navigate the unpredictable landscape of writing and publishing as we discuss the ups and downs of getting a book from manuscript to bookstore shelves. From managing initial expectations, perseverance and Saima's new novel, Vengeance.
Vengeance
For two years, Jia Khan has been running her late father’s organised crime business in the north of England. So far, her authority has remained unchallenged, but now things are beginning to unravel.When she finds her father’s notebook recounting his arrival from Pakistan in the 1970s, it awakes an old family feud that could have devastating repercussions for Jia. And worst of all, one of her staff lies brutally slain, his corpse displayed provocatively in her garden despite her sophisticated security.
Someone is getting dangerously close. Could there be a traitor in Jia Khan’s trusted inner circle?
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Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee ☕️! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
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Follow Me:
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Ever wondered what it's like to transform your teenage dream into a bestselling reality? Join me, Nadine Matheson, as I have an incredibly honest conversation with renowned psychological thriller author Laura Marshall. From the nostalgic pages of her teenage diaries to the intricate balance of a long career and personal ambitions, Laura’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. We delve into the nitty-gritty of her writing process, the debate between being a pantser versus a plotter, her new novel, "A Good Place to Hide a Body", and the critical importance of finding a supportive community in the literary world.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. We tackle the emotional highs and lows of the writing profession, including the daunting task of following up a successful debut and the reality checks of the publishing world. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a seasoned author, this episode offers a heartfelt and motivating look at what it truly takes to succeed in the ever-evolving world of writing and publishing.
A Good Place to Hide a Body
Can you come round?' Dad says tremulously.
'Of course. Are you OK? Is it Mum?'
'No!' He almost shouts it. 'Just come quickly. The garden...the...body... we needyou, Penny.'
For women of Penny's generation, being on hand for elderly parents is just part of life. But for Penny, things have become a little more serious...
When she receives a frantic phone call from her parents one night, with express instructions NOT to call the police, Penny rushes over at once. But they haven't had a fall. They haven't forgotten their computer passwords. They've killed someone. And his body is lying in the garden, right next to the rose bushes.
Everyone is capable of murder. They just need to meet the right person.
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30% off The Kill List
You can get 30% off my brand new book The Kill List on harpercollins.co.uk for a limited time. Add code TKL30 at checkout.Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee ☕️! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comThreads: @nadinematheson
Facebook: nadinemathesonbooks
Instagram: @queennads
TikTok: @writer_nadinematheson
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Send us a text
Ever wondered how a chance encounter can reignite a passion and alter the course of your life? Join us for an engaging conversation with debut author Shani Akilah as she reflects on pivotal moments of discontent that led her to question her life's purpose and eventually pursue writing full-time. Sharni opens up about how a talk by Bernadine Evaristo sparked her writing journey , the joy she found in mentoring young writers and her debut collection of short stories, 'For Such A Time Like This.'
We discuss the emotional rollercoaster of navigating rejections, the thrill of securing a literary agent, and the serendipitous events that shaped her creative career.
For Such A Time Like This
A group of young, Black British friends navigate their way through the ups and downs of modern London life, in this richly imagined collection of linked stories.
These are the people who sustain us through good times and bad.
Meet Niah and her friends. They’re young, they’re smart, they’re part of a tight friendship group determined to make the most of every day. And their lives are about to change forever.
From the tingling excitement of a new relationship to the challenges of online dating, from the shadow of racism in the workplace to the isolation of Covid-19, the stories in For Such a Time as This burst with romance and friendship. This stunning new collection is a powerful snapshot of the relationships – and moments – that make us who we are.Follow Shani Akilah
30% off The Kill List
You can get 30% off my brand new book The Kill List on harpercollins.co.uk for a limited time. Add code TKL30 at checkout.
harpercollins.co.ukSupport the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee ☕️! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comThreads: @nadinematheson
Facebook: nadinemathesonbooks
Instagram: @queennads
TikTok: @writer_nadinematheson
BlueSky: @nadinematheson.bsky.social - Vis mere
