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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. Sheâs 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 Tawrieâs dad at sea. Desperate for a change, she challenges herself to take up wild swimmingâevery morning, no excuses, from March till September.Daring to take the plunge with the âPeacock Swimmersâ, Tawrie feels alive in a way sheâs never known. Suddenly it seems she might be able to step outside her comfort zone after all and let life surprise herâperhaps 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 itâs never too late to pursue your hopes and dreams, but it might be easier said than doneâŚ
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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, weâll 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.
The Conversation with Nadine Matheson needs your support and it would be lovely if you bought me a cup of coffee on ko-fi.com
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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 Elseâs 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 ownerâs 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 doesnât 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 journeyâfrom traditional to self-publishing and everything in betweenâas 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 â 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 â and a missing woman.
Before he was a cop, DI Rob Marshall worked as a criminal profiler on Hollyâs 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 canât 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 â 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 â 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 fatherâs 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 killerâs blood runs through her veins?
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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. Itâs a miracle that our home is still standing. You can see videos of the devastating damage on my social media pages.
Weâre 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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SUPPORT MY GO FUND ME - RAISE THE ROOF
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. Itâs a miracle that our home is still standing. You can see videos of the devastating damage on my social media pages.
Weâre now commencing the clear up and the slow path to recovery which is hindered by the fact that itâs also rainy season which means that theSupport the show
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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 fatherâs 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 fatherâs 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 Khanâs trusted inner circle?
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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, Lauraâs 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 itâs 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
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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. Theyâre young, theyâre smart, theyâre 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 â and moments â 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.
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30% off The Kill List
But then Bree wakes up one morning and discovers recently missing dog-walker Janelle Beckett dead in the foyer. Ty is gone, vanished without a trace.
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.uk
What does resilience in the face of rejection look like? Join me, Nadine Matheson, and award winning author, is Kellye Garrett, the acclaimed author of "Hollywood Homicide," as we discuss the emotional rollercoaster of becoming a published author. From our own experiences of facing repeated rejections to celebrating critical acclaim, our conversation offers a heartfelt glimpse into the challenges and triumphs that define a writer's path.
Kellye and I delve into the contrasting worlds of TV writing and book authoring, emphasising the crucial role of community support and the often solitary journey of crafting a novel. We share insights on the pressures of producing work annually, the vital need to focus on personal growth over competitive comparisons and Kellye's new novel, Missing White Woman.
Missing White Woman
Beautiful. Blonde. Missing. Murdered.
It was supposed to be a romantic getaway to New York City. Breanna's new boyfriend, Ty, took care of everything â the train tickets, the sightseeing itinerary, the four-story Jersey City rowhouse with the gorgeous view of the Manhattan skyline.
A Black woman alone in a strange city, Bree is stranded and out of her depth. Thereâs only one person she can turn to: her ex-best friend, a lawyer with whom she shares a very complicated past.
As the police and a social media mob close in, all looking for #Justice4Janelle, Bree realises that the only way she can stay out of jail is if she finds out what really happened that night.
But when people see only what they want to see, can she uncover the truth hiding in plain sight?
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What happens when an accomplished law student, teacher, and mother pivots to a career in writing? Meet Rachel Wolf, also known by her pen name Rachel Blok, who shares her compelling journey from penning police procedurals to creating standalone thrillers. Discover how her maternity leave sparked a prolific writing career, allowing her to publish one book per year since 2018. We dive into the influence of COVID-19 on her work, her adventurous research methodsâincluding an investigative cruiseâand how these experiences shape her narratives.
Join us for an episode brimming with personal anecdotes, practical advice, Rachel's new novel, Five Nights, and the unwavering determination it takes to succeed in the literary world.
Five Nights
A POWERFUL FAMILY. A LUXURY CRUISE. A KILLER ON BOARD...
I recently married Mattia Scarmardo, head of one of the wealthiest - and most ruthless - families in the world.
I invited you on a five night voyage to New York aboard their glamorous new ship because I needed your help.
Someone in the family is threatening me, scared of the new wife who could steal their vast inheritance.
What I didn't tell you is that there would be a chance you would be targeted too. That what you did all those years ago would finally come back to bite you.
You came here to help me, but you don't know the whole truth.
And now we're trapped on a boat with a murderer.
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Have you ever found yourself at the crossroads of passion and profession, wondering if the risk of following your dream is worth taking the leap? Today I'm in conversation with Ola Tundun, a writer who turned the page from private musings to public acclaim, to bring you an episode that shines a light on the raw, often untold stories of making it in the publishing world. From the emotional rollercoaster of securing a book deal to the courage required to surmount rejection and criticism, Ola's journey is a testament to every writer's battle with self-doubt and the pursuit of authenticity.
Ola Tundun's debut novel, Roommates, described as a sparkling romantic comedy was released in 2023. Her second novel, Complicated, is out now:
Complicated
Ariella doesnât want drama. Well, thatâs too bad.
All she wants is to stay wrapped up in her grapefruit-scented love bubble with reformed playboy Caleb. But then her new boss turns up, the high-flying, high-maintenance Melissa, who has a mysterious history with Caleb.
Suddenly Ariella finds herself working miles from home, fighting with Caleb, and wondering where it all went wrong?
And just as theyâre about to sort it out, real trouble comes knockingâŚ
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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.
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Ever wondered what it's like to wander the labyrinth of the publishing world, with all its highs and lows? That's exactly where I, Nadine Matheson, alongside my guest, Sunday Times Bestselling author, Jo Callaghan take you in our conversation about the exhilarating rollercoaster of an author's life. Jo and I talk about her crime fiction debut, 'In the Blink of An Eye', the sequel Leave No Trace , the influence of AI in publishing and the human attributes it can never replicate.
We also critique the illusion of overnight success and confront the emotional toll of the creative process, while celebrating the unique satisfaction derived from breathing life into our stories. Plus, we tackle the guessing game of publishing, providing insights into the vested emotional and creative stakes that authors navigate.
Leave No Trace
DCS Kat Frank and AIDE Lock return in the provocative new thriller from the Sunday Times bestselling author of In the Blink of an Eye.
One detective driven by instinct, the other by logic.
It will take both to find a killer who knows the true meaning of fear . . .
When the body of a man is found crucified at the top of Mount Judd, AIDE Lock â the worldâs first AI Detective â and DCS Kat Frank are thrust into the spotlight as they are given their first live case.
But with the discovery of another manâs body â also crucified â it appears that their killer is only just getting started. With the police warning local men to be vigilant, the Future Policing Unit is thrust into a hostile media frenzy as they desperately search for connections between the victims. But time is running out for them to join the dots and prevent another death.
For if Kat and Lock know anything, itâs that killers rarely stop â until they are made to.
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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
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In 2017 Caz Frear won the Richard and Judy 'Search for a Bestseller' competition. Her debut novel, Sweet Little Lies was followed by Stone Cold Heart. Embarking on the creation of a second novel often feels like navigating through a darker, more complex sequel to the joyous tale of writing a debut. Caz Frear and I peel back the curtain on the pressures and pleasures that accompany of being a writer. Listen as we dissect the emotional rollercoaster Caz's breakthrough experiences post-writing competition triumph, all while battling the ever-present imposter syndrome, the shifting landscapes of the literary world and her new novel, Five Bad Deeds.
Five Bad Deeds
Teacher, mother, wife, and all-around good citizen Ellen is juggling non-stop commitments, from raising a teen and two toddlers to job-hunting, to finally renovating her dream home, the Meadowhouse. Amidst the chaos, an ominous note arrives in the mail declaring:
SOONER OR LATER EVERYONE SITS DOWN TO A BANQUET OF CONSEQUENCES.
Why would someone send her this note? Ellen has no clue. She's no angel - a white lie here and there, an occasional sharp tongue - but nothing to incur the wrath of an anonymous enemy.
Everyone around Ellen - her husband, her teenage daughter, her sister, her best friend, her neighbours - can guess why, though. They all know from bitter experience that while Ellenâs intentions are always good, this ultimately counts for very little when youâve (unintentionally?) blown up someoneâs life. Could the five bad deeds that come to haunt Ellen explain why things have gone so horribly wrong?
As she races to discover whoâs set on destroying her life, Ellen receives more anonymous messages, each one more threatening than the last . . . and each hitting closer and closer to home and everything she cherishes.
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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 âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
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Navigating the labyrinth of the publishing world can be daunting, but with the insights shared in this episode from author and commercial fiction publishing director, Phoebe Morgan, aspiring writers and book enthusiasts alike will find a guiding star. Phoebe and I unravel the nuances of writer-editor dynamics, discussing everything from handling rejection to the realities of book deals and fifth novel, The Trip. We don't hold back as we lay bare the strategic underpinnings of the publishing calendar, the emotional rollercoaster of writing schedules, and the balancing act of managing talented authors.
We talk candidly about the importance of diversity and transparency in publishing, and the profound satisfaction that comes from career milestones. Whether you're penning your first draft or simply love getting lost in a good book, this conversation will inspire, inform, and connect you to the world of words in ways you never imagined.
The Trip
The perfect holiday. The perfect crime.Four friends on the holiday of a lifetime. Until a vicious murder shatters their paradise.
Four friends who'd do anything for each other, until now.
Only one of them committed a crime.
But all four know how to keep a secret.
And they're all guilty of somethingâŚ
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Ever wrestled with the decision to switch lanes mid-career, or felt the tug of a creative calling that defies expectations? Chioma Okereke is a poet and author who transitioned from the structured world of law to the fluid realm of literature. We take you through the peaks and valleys of releasing a novel, and the realities of authorship in our digital ageâyes, including that tricky dance of social media for writers. Chioma and I talk about the resilience needed to navigate the unpredictable tides of the publishing world, her new novel, Water Baby, which is a coming-of-age story set in the real settlement of Makoko in Lagos. Nigeria and her charity Makoko Pearls.
Water Baby
She's the Pearl of Makoko and the world is her oyster.
In Makoko, the floating slum off mainland Lagos, Nigeria, nineteen-year-old Baby yearns for an existence where she can escape the future her father has planned for her.
With opportunities scarce, Baby jumps at the chance to join a newly launched drone-mapping project, aimed at broadening the visibility of her community.
Then a video of her at work goes viral and Baby finds herself with options she could never have imagined - including the possibility of leaving her birthplace to represent Makoko on the world stage.
But will life beyond the lagoon be everything she's dreamed of? Or has everything she wants been in front of her all along?
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In today's conversation, Sunday Times and New York Times Bestselling author S J Watson and I navigate the uncertain waters of a writer's psyche, we swim through the currents of success and the hold it has on our sense of self. It's a raw look at the myths of writing and publishing, and the significance of authenticity in a world that often prioritizes market appeal over original voice.
S J Watson's debut novel, Before I go to Sleep was a global phenomon that has sold over 6,000,000 copies and was adapted into a major film staring Nicole Kidman, Colin Firth and Mark Strong. Our conversation includes how S.J. Watson navigated the rollercoaster of success with a practical guide to navigating the ever-changing landscape of the publishing industry and the balance between creativity and commercialism. We also ponder the advice we might offer to our younger selves, embracing the joys and challenges that define the creative spirit
Before I Go To Sleep
Memories define us.
So what if you lost yours every time you went to sleep?
Your name, your identity, your past, even the people you love - all forgotten overnight.
And the one person you trust may only be telling you half the story.
Welcome to Christine's life.
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