Episodes

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    In this episode, we explore the life and work of Australian crime fiction novelist Robert G. Barrett, creator of the Les Norton series. We discuss his background, writing style, cultural impact, and the enduring appeal of his books, despite their controversial content.

    Find Robert G Barrett's books on Booktopia

    Visit Booktopia

    A personal farewell - The Newtown Review of Books

    Key Topics

    Robert G. Barrett's background and careerThe creation and character of Les NortonThe cultural and social impact of Barrett's work

    Chapters

    Introduction to Robert G. Barrett and Les NortonThe Life and Background of Robert G. BarrettThe Unique Style of Les Norton NovelsExploring the Appeal of Barrett's WorkThe Controversial Humor and ThemesReflections on Barrett's LegacyThe Impact of Barrett's Writing on ReadersConclusion and Farewell to Robert G. Barrett

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    In this episode, Leigh and Helen explore the rich landscape of Indigenous Australian crime writing, highlighting key authors, their works, and the cultural significance behind them. They discuss how these stories deepen our understanding of First Nations' voices and the importance of celebrating Indigenous storytelling year-round.

    Books and writers we talked about

    Melissa Lucashenko

    Killy DarcyHard YardsToo Much Lip

    Tony Birch

    The White Girl

    Angie Faye Martin

    Melaleuca

    Julie Janson

    Madukka The River Serpent

    Catherine Titasey

    My Island Homicide

    Philip Mclaren

    Scream Black Murder (unfortunately we've been unable to source a link to this book online)

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    In part two of our in-depth conversation with Christian White, we continue to explore his writing process, inspiration, and the secrets behind his bestselling novels.

    Christian also answers our rapid fire quick and the curious questions, giving us a peek behind the curtain!

    Novels by Christian White

    The Nowhere ChildThe Wife and the WidowThe Wild PlaceThe LedgeThe Long Night

    Other books we discussed

    On Writing, by Stephen King

    Key Topics

    Christian White's writing journey and influencesThe importance of hooks and structure in storytellingCreating strong sense of place in novelsBalancing horror and thriller elementsBuilding suspense and misdirection in crime fiction

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

  • Send us Fan Mail

    In this episode, part one of our in-depth conversation with Christian White, we explore his writing process, inspiration, and the secrets behind his bestselling novels, including The Nowhere Child and The Long Night.

    Novels by Christian White

    The Nowhere ChildThe Wife and the WidowThe Wild PlaceThe LedgeThe Long Night

    Contact Christian

    Other books we discussed

    On Writing, by Stephen King

    Key Topics

    Christian White's writing journey and influencesThe importance of hooks and structure in storytellingCreating strong sense of place in novelsBalancing horror and thriller elementsBuilding suspense and misdirection in crime fiction

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    In this episode, we look at the Davitt Awards longlist, which has just been released.

    This year, 126 books were entered into the 26th Davitt Awards, across four categories. The judges of the 2026 Davitt Awards have selected a longlist of 28 books that reflect the excellent quality and maturity of stories written by Australian women crime writers. These stories are notable for their originality, depth and high level of the authors’ skills.

    View the longlist

    https://sistersincrime.org.au/davitt-awards-2026/

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    In this episode we explore the rich history and vibrant present of queer Australian crime fiction, highlighting pioneering authors like Fergus Hume and Dorothy Porter, and contemporary voices shaping the genre today.

    Key Topics

    History of queer Australian crime fictionInfluence of Fergus Hume's 'The Mystery of the Handsome Cab'Dorothy Porter's groundbreaking verse novelsRepresentation of LGBTQ+ characters and authorsContemporary queer crime writers and their impact

    Books and writers we talked about

    Troy Hunter

    Gus and the Missing BoyGus and the Burning Stones

    Fergus Hume

    Mystery of the Hansom Cab

    Sam Elliott

    Haze

    Hayley Scrivenor

    Dirt TownGirl Falling

    GD Gaherty

    High Rise Blood

    Dorothy Porter

    The Monkey's Mask

    Chapters

    Celebrating Pride Month in Crime FictionFergus Hume: The Pioneer of Australian Crime FictionThe Impact of 'The Mystery of the Handsome Cab'Exploring Modern Queer Crime WritersDahlia Turner: A Complex Protagonist in 'Haze'The Evolution of Young Adult Crime FictionThe Role of Queer Voices in LiteratureUpcoming Works and Future AuthorsConclusion and Next Week's Guest

    Keywords

    queer Australian crime fiction, Fergus Hume, Dorothy Porter, LGBTQ+ authors, Australian crime novels, queer literature, crime fiction history, modern queer crime writers

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    Join us for part two of our insightful conversation with author January Gilchrist, as she shares her journey into writing, character development, research adventures, and the realities of publishing. Discover tips for aspiring writers, the importance of authenticity, and her favorite Australian crime novels.

    Key Topics

    Journey into writing and publishingCharacter development and groundingResearch methods and strange discoveriesInsights into the publishing processFavorite authors and genre influences

    January Gilchrist on Instagram

    Chapters

    The Journey to Becoming a WriterCharacter Development and ComplexityResearch and Inspiration for WritingWriting Process and ToolsEditing and Word ChoiceCommunity and Support in WritingWriting for Yourself vs. Commercial SuccessThe Generosity of Australian WritersNavigating Feedback from Editors and ReadersThe Emotional Impact of WritingThe Journey of Writing and PublishingFun and Lighthearted Moments in WritingRapid Fire Questions with January Gilchrist

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    In this episode we speak to the wonderful January Gilchrist, whose latest book, The Final Chapter is essential reading.

    Join us as we explore her creative process, writing routines, and January's inspiring journey. Discover how she balances multiple genres, her experiences at Varuna, and insights into her upcoming novel 'Slake House' in this engaging interview.

    January's books

    The Final Chapter

    My Sister's Shadow

    Things we talked about

    The Rise and Fall of Choose Your Own Adventure (YouTube documentary)

    Key Topics

    Writing routines and processExperiences at Varuna residencyDevelopment of 'The Final Chapter'Themes of women and relationships in her booksUpcoming novel 'Slake House' and its themes

    Chapters

    Introduction and Guest WelcomeJanuary Gilchrist's Writing Routine and Daily LifeThe Inspiration Behind 'The Final Chapter'Character Development and Themes in 'The Final Chapter'Reader Reactions and Feedback on Her BooksBuilding a Novel: Character or Scene First?Research and Historical Accuracy in WritingWriting Tools and Software PreferencesExperience at Varuna Residency and Creative InspirationThe Ghost at Varuna and Its Significance'My Sister's Shadow' and Gothic InspirationWriting Sister Relationships and Character DynamicsBalancing Transient Life and Genre SwitchingUpcoming Novel 'Slake House' and Its ThemesPublishing Timeline and Future Projects

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    In this episode Leigh reads the first chapter of the seminal 1983 Peter Corris novel, The Empty Beach.

    Find Peter Corris books on Booktopia

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

  • Send us Fan Mail

    Summary

    Explore the prolific career of Peter Corris, the godfather of contemporary Australian crime writing, and his impact on the genre. Discover his key works, influences, and legacy in shaping Australian noir and the character of Cliff Hardy.

    Key Topics

    Peter Corris's influence on Australian crime fictionThe significance of Cliff Hardy in Australian noirCorris's literary influences, especially Raymond ChandlerThe evolution of Corris's writing style over his careerThe impact of Australian landscape and society on his novels

    Key Frameworks

    Australian noirSydney as a character in crime fiction

    Chapters

    The Legacy of Peter CorrisExploring Key Works of Peter CorrisThe Evolution of Cliff HardyThemes in Corris's WritingThe Influence of Australian LandscapeLooking Ahead: Future Conversations

    More on Peter Corris

    Find Peter Corris books on Booktopia

    Peter Corris documentary on YouTube

    In Competition podcast (Jim and Sean)
    https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/in-competition/id1724684222

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    Join Helen and Leigh as they explore the top 12 Australian crime debut novels, ranked by success and awards, with fun clues and insights into each book's significance in Australian crime fiction.

    Books we discussed

    Bay of Fires, by Poppy GeeThe Dark Lake, by Sarah BaileyThe Torrent, by Dinuka McKenzieWake, by Shelley BurrDirt Town, by Hayley ScrivenorBoy Swallows Universe, by Trent DaltonScrublands, by Chris HammerStiff, by Shane MaloneyThe Bluffs, by Kyle PerryMurder in the Pacific, by Matt FrancisQuota, by Jock Serong

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Keywords

    Australian crime fiction, debut novels, Ned Kelly Awards, Australian noir, book list, crime writing, Australian authors, mystery novels, literary awards, coastal noir

    Key Topics

    Top Australian crime debut novelsAwards and success of debut novelsGenre evolution and regional settings in Australian crimeNotable authors and their breakthrough books

    Music Credits

    Music by Mykola Odnoroh (Jazz Lounge Elevator Music) from Pixabay

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    Summary
    In part two of our look at the 12 essential crime fiction screen adaptations, we're counting down from six to one. Discover what landed where and how these stories shaped Australian cinema and television, highlighting their cultural significance and cinematic brilliance.

    Key Topics

    Adaptation of 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' and its cultural impactThe success of 'The Dry' and its influence on Australian crime genreThe role of Australian landscape in storytelling and film

    Chapters

    Introduction to Australian Crime NovelsPicnic at Hanging Rock: A Classic AdaptationThe Broken Shore: A Deep DiveScrublands: A Unique Adaptation ApproachBad Debts: The Jack Irish SeriesMiss Fisher's Murder Mysteries: A Glamorous DetectiveThe Tie for Number One: The Dry and Its Impact

    Resources & links

    'Picnic at Hanging Rock' (film)'The Dry' (film)Kerry Greenwood's Miss Fisher seriesEpisode 7 of the Kill City Podcast - Murder in the Dark, celebrating Kerry GreenwoodEasy Tiger Productions (website)Easy Tiger (IMDB)

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    Summary

    This episode explores the 12 essential Australian crime novel adaptations for TV and film, highlighting their impact, production insights, and cultural significance. Hosted by Helen and Leigh, it features in-depth discussions on adaptations like Silver (Scrublands 2), Stiff, Les Norton, and more.

    Keywords

    Australian crime fiction, TV adaptations, film adaptations, Australian literature, crime novels, screen adaptations, Australian crime series, Peter Temple, Shane Maloney, Jane Harper

    Key Topics

    Impact of Australian crime novels on screenProduction insights of adaptationsCultural significance of Australian crime stories

    Films and TV adaptations we discussed

    Stiff Black TideForce of NatureMiss Fisher and the Crypt of TearsSilverLes Norton

    Chapters

    Introduction to Australian Crime AdaptationsExploring 'Silver' and Chris Hammer's UniverseThe Miss Fisher PhenomenonLes Norton: A Controversial LegacyForce of Nature: The Rugged Australian LandscapeStiff: A Political Satire in Crime FictionDeadpoint: The Dark Side of Jack Irish

    Resources

    Chris Hammer's SilverMiss Fisher's Murder MysteriesJane Harper's Force of NaturePeter Temple's Jack Irish seriesShane Maloney's Murray Whelan series

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    Summary

    In this episode Helen and Leigh provide a comprehensive overview of Australian crime novels releasing in 2026, featuring insights into authors, themes, and upcoming events. Perfect for crime fiction enthusiasts planning their reading list.

    Books we talked about

    Dark Desert Road, Tim Ayliffe

    Haze, by Sam Elliott

    The Gambler, JP Pomare

    Click, by Sarah Bailey

    Tell me something true, by Michael Robotham

    The Long Night, by Christian White *note: we incorrectly had The Long Night coming in June 2026, which we've realised was incorrect. You can find it in-store now! Sorry about that :)

    An ill Wind, by Margaret Hickey

    Three Reasons for Revenge, by Dervla McTiernan

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Chapters

    Exploring Australian Crime Novels for 2026Notable Releases: Tim Aliff and Sam ElliottJP Pomare and Sarah Bailey: Rising StarsHistorical Crime and New VoicesReturning Favorites: Michael Robotham and Christian WhiteMargaret Hickey and Vicky Petratus: Rural Noir QueensDervla McTiernan: Anticipated ReleasesUpcoming Festivals and Author EventsWrap-Up: The Future of Australian Crime Fiction

    Keywords

    Australian crime novels, 2026 releases, crime authors, book festivals, crime fiction trends

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    In this episode Helen reads the first chapter of Kerry Greenwood's debut Phryne Fisher novel, Cocaine Blues.

    Find Cocaine Blues on Booktopia

    The London season is in full fling at the end of the 1920s, but the Honourable Phryne Fisher - she of the green-grey eyes, diamant garters and outfits that should not be sprung suddenly on those of nervous dispositions - is rapidly tiring of the tedium of arranging flowers, making polite conversations with retired colonels, and dancing with weak-chinned men. Instead, Phryne decides it might be rather amusing to try her hand at being a lady detective in Melbourne, Australia.

    Almost immediately from the time she books into the Windsor Hotel, Phryne is embroiled in mystery: poisoned wives, cocaine smuggling rings, corrupt cops and communism - not to mention erotic encounters with the beautiful Russian dancer, Sasha de Lisse - until her adventure reaches its steamy end in the Turkish baths of Little Lonsdale Street.

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

  • Send us Fan Mail

    Summary

    In the episode we explore the life, works, and legacy of Australian crime writer Kerry Greenwood OAM, focusing on her iconic character Phrynne Fisher and her impact on crime fiction and television adaptations.

    Key Topics

    Kerry Greenwood's contribution to Australian crime fictionThe character of Phrynne Fisher and her significanceThe adaptation of the books into the TV series Miss Fisher's Murder MysteriesGreenwood's versatility across genres including crime, historical fiction, and young adultThe social and feminist themes in Greenwood's work

    Takeaways

    Kerry Greenwood brought joy and social awareness to crime fiction.Phrynne Fisher's character exemplifies modern feminist ideals in a 1920s setting.The TV adaptation captured the spirit of Greenwood's work, especially Essie Davis's portrayal.Greenwood's background as a solicitor enriched her authentic depiction of legal and moral dilemmas.Her work spans multiple genres, showcasing her versatility as a writer.

    Books we discussed

    Cocaine BluesFlying too HighMurder on the Ballarat train

    Chapters

    Celebrating Kerry Greenwood's LegacyThe Unique Voice of Kerry GreenwoodMiss Fisher: A Bold and Stylish HeroineCozy Crime or Something More?The TV Adaptation: Bringing Miss Fisher to LifeExploring Other Works by Kerry GreenwoodThe Culinary Side of Kerry GreenwoodKerry Greenwood's Lasting Impact on Crime Fiction

    Resources

    Kerry Greenwood's Official WebsiteMiss Fisher's Murder Mysteries (TV Series)Cooking the Books (Cookbook)A Taste of Murder (Cookbook)Miss Fisher's Modern Murder Mysteries (TV Series)

    Keywords

    Kerry Greenwood, Phrynne Fisher, Australian crime fiction, Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries, crime series, Australian authors, Melbourne crime stories

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    Leigh reads the first chapter from Peter Temple's acclaimed debut novel, Bad Debts.

    Synopsis

    A phone message from ex-client Danny McKillop doesn’t ring any bells for Jack Irish. Life is hard enough without having to dredge up old problems: his beloved football team continues to lose, the odds on his latest plunge at the track seem far too long and he’s still cooking for one.

    But then Danny turns up dead and Jack has to take a walk back into the dark and dangerous past.

    Buy Bad Debts on Booktopia.

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

  • Send us Fan Mail

    This episode explores the life and legacy of Peter Temple, a transformative Australian crime writer known for his sharp prose, vivid sense of place, and award-winning novels. Host Leigh Dillon shares insights into Temple's career, writing style, and adaptations, highlighting his impact on Australian literature.

    Books we talked about and where you can find them

    The complete works of Peter Temple

    Bad Debts Black TideDead PointWhite DogThe Broken ShoreTruthThe Red HandIn the Evil DayShooting StarAn Iron Rose

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Movies
    The Jack Irish series on ABC iView

    Valentine's Day

    Chapters

    Celebrating Peter Temple's LegacyThe Impact of Peter Temple's WritingExploring the Jack Irish SeriesFilm and Television Adaptations of Temple's WorkThe Distinctive Language of Peter TemplePersonal Favourites and Closing Thoughts

    Leigh reading the first chapter of Bad Debts (released Wednesday, 22 April, 9am)

    Resources
    Australian Crime Writers Association - https://australiancrimewriters.com

    The 2026 Louie Awards

    https://www.austcrimewriters.com/2026-louie-award-winner


    Keywords

    Peter Temple, Australian crime fiction, Jack Irish, crime writing, Australian literature, awards, Melbourne setting, storytelling, adaptation, literary legacy

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

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    Summary

    In this episode of the Kill City podcast, hosts Leigh and Helen delve into the 2025 Ned Kelly Awards, celebrating the best in Australian crime fiction, true crime, and international noir. They discuss the winners, notable mentions, and the significance of the awards in promoting Australian literature. The conversation also highlights upcoming entries for the 2026 awards and the legacy of past winners.

    Takeaways

    The Ned Kelly Awards are a prestigious recognition in Australian crime writing.Margaret Hickey's 'The Creeper' won Best Crime Fiction in 2025.Lisa Kenway's debut novel explores themes of memory and identity.Steve Johnson's true crime book sheds light on historical injustices.International crime fiction continues to gain recognition in Australia.Short story collections like 'Highway 13' deserve more appreciation.The awards have a rich history of celebrating emerging voices.The podcast emphasizes the importance of literary awards in the writing community.Future entries for the Ned Kelly Awards open in March 2026.Peter Temple's influence on Australian crime fiction is significant.

    The 2025 Ned Kelly Award winners

    The Creeper by Margaret Hickey - Best CrimeAll You Took From Me by Lisa Kenway - Best DebutA Thousand Miles from Care by Steve Johnson - Best True CrimeA Case of Matricide by Graeme Macrae Burnet - Best International Crime

    https://www.austcrimewriters.com/2025-winners

    Helen's fave

    Highway 13 by Fiona McFarlane

    Chapters

    Introduction to the Ned Kelly AwardsCelebrating the Winners of 2025Exploring Best True Crime and International FictionHighlighting Notable Mentions and Future Awards

    The 2026 Louie Awards

    https://www.austcrimewriters.com/2026-louie-award-winner

    Keywords

    Ned Kelly Awards, Australian crime fiction, true crime, international noir, book recommendations, crime writing, literary awards, Margaret Hickey, Lisa Kenway, Steve Johnson

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au

  • Send us Fan Mail

    Summary

    In this episode of the Kill City Podcast, hosts Leigh Dillon and Helen delve into the 2025 Scarlet Stiletto Awards, a prestigious event celebrating women's contributions to crime and mystery writing in Australia. They discuss the history of the Sisters in Crime organization, highlight the winners of this year's awards, and explore the diverse categories and emerging voices in the literary scene. The episode concludes with a teaser for future discussions, including the upcoming Ned Kelly Awards and interviews with notable authors.

    Takeaways

    The Scarlet Stiletto Awards celebrate women's crime writing in Australia.Sisters in Crime has been active since 1991, promoting female authors.Over 5,000 stories have been submitted to the awards over the years.Dr. Sandra Tom Jones won the first prize for her clever story.Nettie Hilton and Jackie Horswood also received recognition for their unique stories.The awards include various categories, showcasing diverse talent.Young writers like Amber Woodburn are emerging in the crime genre.The podcast highlights the importance of short stories in literature.Future episodes will feature discussions on the Ned Kelly Awards.The hosts emphasize the value of supporting women's voices in crime fiction.

    Books and things we talked about

    17th Cut of the Scarlet Stilettos - eBook

    Sisters in Crime website

    Melbourne Writers Festival website


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Scarlet Stiletto Awards
    04:17 Celebrating Winners and Prizes
    13:32 Spotlight on Winning Stories and Authors
    17:24 Looking Ahead: The Ned Kelly Awards

    Keywords

    Scarlet Stiletto Awards, Sisters in Crime, women's crime writing, Australian authors, short stories, crime fiction, literary awards, emerging writers, podcast, book recommendations

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    Booktopia Affiliate Program

    The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

    At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.

    Disclaimer

    The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.

    www.killcitypodcast.com.au