Episodes
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In Episode 129, Veronica & Laurie get into the underbelly with crime and thriller writers Dan Kaufman and Lisa Kenway. We chat inspiration, experience, character arcs and red herrings. And we explore themes from the human psyche, connected consciousness, research and plot retrofitting.
Intro - 0:57
Lisa Kenway Bio - 2:47
Dan Kaufman Bio - 6:34
Book Spotlight - All You Took From Me - Lisa Kenway - pyschological thriller - 19:32
Book Spotlight - Humidity - Dan Kaufman - Aussie Noir - 20:46
Exploring the dark corners of the human psyche - 32:07
Plotting the crime thriller - 36:34
Your biggest writing and publishing lesson - 45:13
Advice for new writers - 56:00
Book Review - 58:06Support the show
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In episode #128, Laurie finally gets Veronica under the author spotlight. We learn of the Heroine's Journey, how the pathway to publication can be filled with ogres and dragons, and how important family, friends and writing communities are for fostering emerging authors. Then it's Laurie's turn to share why she writes, what she reads, fan fiction, her creative triggers, future plans, and so much more.
Intro - 00:57
Grief and Breathing While Drowning - 06:48
The Heroine's Journey - 08:22
Ochre Dragon - 11:15
ABL origins - 23:16
Why Laurie writes - 41:24
Stones of Power - 52:35
What feeds Laurie's imagination - 56:38
Boss From Hell - 58:09
How does writing make you feel? - 1:06:34
White Fire plus The Good, The Bad & The Undecided - 1:15:32
Quotes - 1:19:06
Chickabella - 1:24:25Support the show
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Missing episodes?
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In Episode 127, Veronica & Laurie share Australian writing and publishing industry news, writing events & more wonderful words from John Koenig. Laurie dives into a fabulous conversation about writing original science fiction novels, media tie-ins, screenplays and so much more with the amazing, award-winning and versatile Australian author, Amanda Bridgeman.
Broome Enigma by Meryl Brown Tobin - romanceScruffy and Silk by Karen Kepert & Kaz Clarke - children's picture bookMy Name is Gucci by Sun Jung - contemporaryA Cold Season by Matthew Hooper - contemporary
Book Spotlights:
Intro - 00:57
Industry news - 3:22
Book spotlights - 14:45
Author Interview - 28:28
Post interview chat - 1:25:46
Quotes - 1:29:18Support the show
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In episode 126 Veronica and Laurie are joined in the Writer's Room by authors Lisa Darcy and Dr Bella Ellwood-Clayton. We dive into contemporary fiction writing, female relationships in its many forms across the generations, the concept of perfection, navigating the vicissitudes of life and ultimately triumphing over adversity. Lisa and Bella share their different writing and editing processes, and provide sage advice for emerging authors.
Intro - 00:57
Lisa Darcy bio - 05:35
Book spotlight - Christmas Actually - 8:48
Bella Ellwood-Clayton bio - 13:53
Book spotlight - Weekend Friends - 15:08
Outwardly perfect inwardly messy characters - 22:08
Contemporary settings - 28:31
Relationships from real life creeping into stories - 41:51
The writing and editing process - 55:58Support the show
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Episode 125 brings ABL co-founder Darren Kasenkow back for an insightful interview with author, artist and advocate, Damien Linnane. Dive into this brilliant discussion on crime, the justice system, and memoirs as Damien shares some of the traumas and triumphs of his life story, his writing, his art, and his passion for lifelong learning.
Intro - 00:56
Author Interview - 02:25
Post interview chat - 2:01:57
Quotes - 2:03:08Support the show
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Episode 124 starts with an audio book excerpt of Midnight Man by Kevin Klehr. Then Veronica and Laurie dive into industry news and events, explore new words and book spotlights. We have a wonderful interview with author Finegan Kruckemeyer. Plus, the importance of reading for children, supporting artists of all kinds, and reminding everyone what great gifts books are - and of course all the other ABL merchandise.
Beam of Light by John Kinsella – contemporaryThe Postman’s My Mate by Kelly Louise Jarris – Children’s Picture BookMurder at the Tennis Club by Rita Lee Chapman - mysteryThe Power of Content by Mel Daniels – non-fictionConquist by Dirk Strasser – speculative fiction – portal fantasy – alternative history
Book spotlights:Audiobook cameo - 00:57
Intro - 03:34
Industry news - 10:53
Book spotlights - 20:47
Author Interview - 41:50
Post interview chat - 1:23:56
Quotes - 1:29:32Support the show
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In episode #123, Veronica and Laurie take you in a myriad of directions, from industry and upcoming news, including Wilderness Society's Karajia and Environment Award winners, fascinating first lines, and exciting events, to reminders to join your local and state writing group for more opportunities and events. Laurie chats with the wonderful Donna M Cameron about her eco-fiction/thriller/love story, The Rewilding, and so much more.
Tamarra - A story of termites on Gurindji Country by 30 collaborative authors and artists - educational picture bookTao Tuning by Adrian Emery - non-fictionGrace & Marigold by Mira Robertson - contemporaryMural by Stephen Downes - contemporary
Book spotlights:Intro - 00:57
Industry news - 3:18
Book spotlights - 21:34
Author Interview - 33:46
Post interview chat - 1:24:34
Quotes - 1:26:06Support the show
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If you find people fascinating, then episode 122 is a must. Veronica and Laurie chat with authors Bruce Lowery, Jessica Mudditt and David Hume about memoir and biography. Why does this creative non-fiction genre continue to fascinate and inspire readers? Our authors share why they're willing to put a slice of their lives on the pages for the world to read.
Book spotlights:
Catch the Wind by Bruce Lowery - memoir
Once Around the Sun by Jessica Mudditt - memoir
Blind without Barriers by David Hume and Peter Murray - biography
Intro - 00:57
Bruce Lowery bio - 05:21
Catch the Wind blurb - 08:30
David Hume bio - 10:42
Blind without Barriers blurb - 17:18
Jessica Mudditt bio - 19:15
Once Around the Sun blurb - 23:24Support the show
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In episode 121, Veronica and Laurie are joined by fabulous Australian speculative fiction authors E. J. Dawson and Pauline Yates. The conversation tackles the history of Speculative Fiction, the three key elements of any good spec fic story, and far ranging wonders about future 'what ifs'. There's a good deal of hilarity about zombies and space ships, so strap in and engage the hyperdrive.
The Queen of Spade Trilogy: Awakening, Darkening and Reckoning by E. J. Dawson - scifiShattered by Pauline Yates (Australian writer) - scifi horror
Book spotlights:Intro - 00:57
Pauline Yates (Australian writer) bio - 03:37
E.J. Dawson bio - 11:24
The evolution of Space Opera - 29:32
Book spotlights - 56:31
What is your favourite speculative fiction 'what if'? - 01:00:25Support the show
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Episode 120 has Veronica and Laurie chasing down speculative fiction rabbit holes as they bring you industry news, writing opportunities, book festivals and more. We share two new words from John Koenig (ecsis and craxis) that segue into a brilliant chat with climate fiction author Vanessa Lee.
Gurril Storm Bird by Trevor Fourmile (illustrated by Jingalu)The Trees by Victor Steffensen (Illustrated by Sandra Steffensen)Gurawul the Whale by Uncle Max Dulumunmun (illustrated by Laura La Rosa)In My Blood It Runs by Dujuan Hoosan, Margaret Anderson & Carol Turner (Illustrated by Blak Douglas)
Our book spotlights are wonderful children's picture books from the Wilderness Society Australia - Karajia Award Shortlist.Intro - 00:57
Industry news - 7:17
Book spotlights - 22:59
Author Interview - 37:37
Post interview chat - 1:16:26
Quotes - 1:21:26Support the show
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Episode 119 is chock full with Veronica and Laurie winding their way through news, words, book spotlights, and quotes as well as sharing their promised pitches. Veronica chats with author Andrea Putting about compassionate prosperity and purpose, and life long learning.
Book spotlights:
Talon Marked by Sue-Ellen Pashley - fantasy
Secondhand Daylight by Eugen Bacon and Andrew Hook - speculative fiction
Ask Aunty: Seasons, written by Aunty Munya and illustrated by Charmaine Ledden-Lewis - picture book
Nedingar: Ancestors, written by Isobel Bevis and illustrated by Leanne Zilm - picture book
Intro - 00:57
Industry news - 5:05
Book spotlights - 16:31
The pitches - 32:55
Author Interview - 46:07
Post interview chat - 1:22:58
Quotes - 1:26:22Support the show
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In Episode 118, Veronica & Laurie bring you AI news and reminders for ASA pitching and literary speed dating events, and new words from John Koenig (nighthawk, heartmoor and furosha). Laurie chats with award winning author Catherine McNamara about writing workshops, flash fiction, short stories, and running retreats at her home in Italy. Plus Laurie reviews The Changing Room by Belinda Cranston.
Book spotlights:
The Photograph by Diane Clarke - historical mystery
Happy Millionth Birthday by RWR McDonald & Alexandra Colombo - picture book
Tipping Point by Dinuka McKenzie - crime thriller.
Intro - 00:59
Industry news - 12:36
Book spotlights - 28:32
Author Interview - 41:03
Post interview chat - 1:34:13
Quotes - 1:36:12
Book review - 1:41:31Support the show
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Episode 117 is bursting at the seams. Veronica and Laurie chat and laugh with three amazing Aussie authors who build a bridge and take us over the writing abyss from book 1 to book 2. Hayley Walsh, Nikky Lee and Dr Helen Edwards inspire and entertain us as they share wisdom from their own journeys, fess up to their procrastination games, and tell us why they champion diversity and inclusion in their stories.
Book spotlights:
Scattered Scones by Hayley Walsh - light-hearted contemporary fiction
Once We Flew by Nikky Lee - science fantasy space colonisation novella
Legends of the Lighthouse Moon by Helen Edwards - middle-grade adventure
Intro - 00:59
Book Spotlights - 45:25Support the show
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Veronica and Laurie host a super special writing workshop in episode #116. Dr Rachel Matthews creates a space where readers become writers. Through chat and exercises, an amazing group of people explore different approaches to storytelling and finding your natural voice and style. Many gems are written in the moment, and shared with laughs, sighs and damp eyes.
Book Spotlights (giveaways) courtesy of Transit Lounge:
Never Look Desperate by Rachel Matthews - contemporary
All You Took From Me by Lisa Kenway - psychological thriller
Beam of Light - John Kinsella - contemporary stories
Intro - 00:25
Writing Prompt 1 (My life as a book) - 15:53
Writing Prompt 2 (The extraordinary in the ordinary) - 22:33
Writing Prompt 3 (Three items, one sentence) - 1:02:55
Book Spotlights - 1:11:58Support the show
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In a super special Writer's Room for Ep115, we're celebrating NAIDOC week with Indigenous authors Victor Steffensen and Isobel Bevis.
Both shortlisted for The Wilderness Society Australia Karajia Awards for Children's Literature, Victor and Isobel share with Veronica and Laurie how close to their heart the writing stories for children and adults is. They want to educate everyone about the importance of caring for Country and leaving only your footprints so it becomes a shared connection and responsibilty for all Australians. We chat about Indigenous Land management, stories in language, accidental authors, the amazing art their illustrators bring to their words, and how children love the songs that accompany Victor's books.
Book Spotlights:
The Trees - written by Victor Steffensen and illustrated by Sandra Steffensen
Nedingar: Ancestors - written by Isobel Bevis and illustrated by Leanne Zilm
2024 National NAIDOC week logo by Indigenous artist Deb Belyea.Support the show
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In episode 114, Veronica and Laurie realise the word ludiosis (a John Koenig original) describes their podcast planning magnificently. As well as all the regular events, news and the Melbourne weather, there's book spotlights, quotes, and reviews. And much laughter. Veronica chats with the wonderful Dr Monika Schott about her art, books, and being an advocate for marginalised communities.
Artemisia, Aurora and Aphrodite (Regency Goddesses Series) by D.G. Rampton - regency romanceOnce We Flew by Nikky Lee - science fictionWeekend Friends by Bella Ellwood-Clayton - contemporary
Book Spotlights:
Book Review: Naomi Shippen reviews Lucky Number 11 by Jess Kitching
Intro - 00:25
Industry news - 09:03
Book spotlights - 20:05
Author Interview - 32:55
Post interview chat - 1:13:20
Quotes - 1:17:10
Book review - 1:22:40Support the show
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In Episode 113 we give a big shout out to our newest subscribers Hayley Walsh and Nadine Abrahams. We talk Victorian library and Aus vs US best seller stats, NAIDOC week awards and Karajia Awards shortlists, pitching tips, reading trends, and ideas for the literary Olympics. Plus, congrats to Helen Edwards and Nikky Lee for recent book cover reveals.
In a dragon-laden interview with multi-talented Sue-Ellen Pashley, she shares her wisdom, experience and advice, as well what Darth Vader wears under his suit.
Our book review is Secondhand Daylight by Eugen Bacon and Andrew Hook.
Book spotlights:
The End and Everything before it by Finegan Kruckemeyer - contemporary
Oblivion by Patrick Holland - science fiction
All You Took From Me by Lisa Kenway - psychological thriller
Humidity - by Dan Kaufman - Aussie noir crime
Intro - 00:25
Industry news - 06:29
Book spotlights - 20:06
Author Interview - 38:22
Post interview chat - 1:26:39
Quotes - 1:32:16
Book review - 1:34:22Support the show
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In episode 112, Veronica and Laurie bring you libraries, warm winter reads, Lego adventures, Story Dogs, fellowships, industry news, made up words, reminders about the free online RAW (readers are writers) workshop with Dr Rachel Matthews and so much more... (Did you know, karanoia is terror of the blank page?)
Power and Obsession by Catherine McCullagh – alternative historyThe Rust Red Land by Robyn Bishop – historical fictionThe Leaves by Jacqueline Rule – contemporaryCorpus in Extremis: A Memoir by Loretta Smith - memoir
Veronica has another go at the PMI Victorian History Library's Friday Riddle. You'll have to listen to the next episode to see if she's close.
Laurie has a wonderful chat with the amazing fantasy author Nadine Abrahams.
Book spotlights for this episode include:Intro - 00:26
Industry news - 12:58
Book spotlights - 25:21
Author Interview - 43:32
Post interview chat - 1:25:15
Quotes - 1:32:44Support the show
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In Episode 111, Veronica & Laurie bring you news, reviews and rabbit holes about phonics, olympic cyclists, AI surveys, festivals, events and anthologies (two from Deadset Press: Rebels and Rainbows + Embrace the Silence). Plus Laurie takes a deep dive interview with the amazing author Les Zig (Lazaros Zigomanis). Our book review is the final volume in the YA series Blackbirch. Blackbirch 4: The Collector by K.M. Allan.
Book spotlights this episode include:
Crossing Continents: A Cycling Odyssey from Norway to Spain by Russell Nankervis - non-fiction
Once Around the Sun by Jessica Muddit - memoir
The Girl Who Broke the World by Renee Hayes - YA dystopian fantasy
The Pact by Lisa Darcy - contemporary
Intro - 00:25
Industry news - 05:30
Book spotlights - 20:49
Author Interview - 33:39
Post interview chat - 1:29:18
Quotes - 1:31:30
Book review - 1:36:39Support the show
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In the Writer's Room for Ep110, Veronica and Laurie chat with the brilliant, multi-talented crime authors Andrea Barton (The Godfather of Dance) and Kirsten Hunter (Murder at the Narssisus Gardening Club). We explore the adventures and experiences that brought them to writing and publishing their debut crime novels. Both have recently released first in a series starring a fabulous female sleuth. Though delivering very different stories, we discover both authors have written childrens books and share a love of live theatre and musicals. We hear about their carefully planned plots, red herrings, sidekicks, suspects, subplots, and love interests. As well as more serious topics around human behaviour, we laugh about Google searches, puzzle solving and potato cakes versus potato scallops.
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