Talking Aussie Books

Pip Fioretti is a Sydney-based author who has been writing fiction since 2006 alongside a career in visual arts. 

In the 2021 Sydney lockdown and inspired by walks she’d taken though the arid rangelands of western NSW, Pip wrote the first draft for a novel that would become her first crime novel - 'Bone Lands'.

Released by Affirm Press at the end of March, 'Bone Lands' is a highly evocative, compelling and somewhat confronting novel which delves into Australia’s dark past and prosperity built on the back of the pastoral industry. 

A thoroughly engrossing, sobering novel that heralds a bright future for one of Australia’s newest outback noir writers. 

I enjoyed a wide-ranging, fascinating chat with Pip for the podcast recently. 

Art, history, lies and family secrets are at the heart of another stunning debut Aussie novel I recently had the utter pleasure of reading. 

Lisa Medved’s mesmerising novel, The Engraver’s Secret is the story of two women linked over the span of 400 years through a mysterious map and a family secret.

Set between Antwerp in the Spanish Netherlands in the 1620’s and the Antwerp of Belgium in the present day, The Engraver’s Secret centres of the stories of Antonia Vorsterman and Charlotte Hubert - who share some common traits - a passion for art, their intelligence and fiercely independent natures. 

A rich, fascinating and vividly drawn story that I was genuinely sorry to finish. 

I was thrilled to welcome Lisa to the podcast recently.

Any book that explores the role fate plays in our lives is always going to be one I will enjoy. 

So it was with great interest that I read Rhianna King's and brilliant debut novel ‘Birds of a Feather’ published at the end of March by Affirm Press. 

Rhianna is a Melbourne-based author who has spent more than two decades working as a communicator in the public and not for profit sector.

During the long lockdowns of 2020 and 2021,  Rhianna fancied company of people other than those she was in lockdown with and so decided to create characters with whom to spend time with.

The result was 'Birds of a Feather': an absolutely delightful novel about forbidden romance, second chances, taking yourself beyond your comfort zone and of course, fate. 

I laughed, I cried and just fell in love with this charming and assured story from a talented newcomer. 

Rhianna and I had a wonderful chat for the podcast recently about her inspiration, writing, visiting London and... what we would do if we won the lotto!

Debut Australian novelists are enjoying their heyday at the moment.  It seems that every other day I’m learning about another fabulous Aussie writer ticking getting published off their bucket list. 

Moreover, the quality of these stories are simply outstanding.

None more so than the debut novel from my next guest author. 

Maxine Fawcett is a Sydney-based author who runs a media and marketing business with her husband.

Hailing from England originally, Maxine obtained a BA in Communication and Art History from the University of East London before moving on to gain lots of different experiences doing variable work until landing on her feet with an advertising company and later moving out here to Australia. 

I first met Maxine or Max (as she’s known by many) a few years back as a fellow aspiring author and it has given me immense joy to see Max hit her stride in her publishing journey and find a home for her wonderful novel. 

‘Everything is Perfect’ published by Penguin earlier this year is a book that takes a wry look at marriage, motherhood and how in middle age we can lose sight of our true selves. 

A compulsive novel that had me flipping pages well into the night.

I was simply delighted to speak with Max on the podcast recently.

Regular listeners might remember a few years back I welcomed debut novelist Kelli Hawkins to the podcast. 

Kelli is a Newcastle-based author who landed a rare four-book deal with HarperCollins for two adult books and two children’s books in 2020. 

Back then we were chatting about her bestselling gripping psychological thriller - Other People’s Houses. A gritty and compelling novel I simply could not put down. 

Three years on, and Kelli has cemented her place amongst some of the best crime writers in this country - with follow up titles like All She Wants and Apartment 303. 

And recently, Kelli celebrated the release of yet another fabulously compulsive novel into the world. 

A fourth novel for adults called ‘The Miller Women’. 

And having just finished it, I can attest to its brilliance!  

Tightly woven, disturbing and incredibly satisfying, I read this absolute page-turner in one sitting - with an end that will leave you breathless. 

I was thrilled to welcome Kelli back to the podcast to chat about her new book.

Listeners, as you can imagine I read a lot of books. Mostly Australian fiction - given that this is the genre on which the Talking Aussie Books podcast was founded.  

I do try and read the international titles everyone is talking about (I think Yellowface was the latest) and then of course, I throw in a couple of non-fiction titles for good measure. 

However, I am far from an authority on what the majority of Australians are reading. There are people out there reading hundreds of books each year…some of the titles I’ve heard of and others, sadly, I haven’t. 

So, in an attempt to gain greater insight into the reading tastes of the Australian public, I decided to mix things up a tad and chat to a reader, author and bookseller.

To that end, I was delighted to welcome Mishell Currie (reader), Sandie Docker (author) and Anna Loder (bookseller) to the podcast recently.  

The Black and Bright Festival is a literary festival dedicated to the diverse expressions of First Nations storytelling.

Established in 2016 this four-day festival is based in Naarm (Melbourne) and covers all genres from oral stories, novels, to plays and poetry. 

With over 60 first nations artists set to appear at the upcoming festival between 14 and 17 March 2024, it is sure to be a fabulous celebration of black stories. 

And in honour of this premier cultural event, I spoke with Julie Janson.

Julie is a Darug woman of the Burruberongal Clan.  

A playwright, poet and novelist, Julie’s 2022 novel, 'Madukka the River Serpent', an Indigenous crime novel, was long listed for the Miles Franklin Award. 

Julie was also a recipient of the Oodgeroo Noonuccal Poetry Prize 2016 and the Judith Wright Poetry Prize 2019. 

Julie’s historical novel 'Benevolence' was published by Magabala Books in 2020  and published in the US and UK in 2022. 

'Compassion' is the follow-up novel to 'Benevolence' and has just been released by Magabala. 

I was thrilled to have the chance to speak with Julie about her work on the podcast recently. 

Jane Tara is an author and wanderer who is best known in Australia for her role as general manager of Better Reading - one of Australia's largest online book communities.

Jane is the author of more than 100 books, several plays and five novels.

Recently, Jane's new novel, 'Tilda is Visible' was released by Affirm Press.

A wonderfully surprising, quirky, funny and spellbinding book that I absolutely adored.

A must read for ALL women.

I was thrilled to welcome Jane to the podcast to chat about Tilda is Visible.

Dervla McTiernan is an international best-selling critically acclaimed author of 4 novels (think of The Ruin, The Scholar and The Murder Rule) as well as several audio novellas.

Since becoming published in 2018, Dervla's books have regularly graced Amazon bestseller lists. She has won a Ned Kelly Award, a Davitt Award and a Barry Award and has been shortlisted for numerous others. 

Her work has been described as rivalling that of John Grisham.

A couple of years ago now I was fortunate to chat with Dervla for the podcast when her book 'The Murder Rule' was released.

Recently, I got to do it again in honour of the release of Dervla's breath-taking new novel ‘What Happened to Nina?’.

A wonderful interview with one of Australia's best storytellers.

Today listeners I’m introducing you to another author whose gorgeous debut novel, called ‘All the Golden Light’ has just been published by HarperCollins.

A richly detailed, sweeping historical novel, 'All the Golden Light' is a snapshot of life for one woman living on the south coast of NSW at the tail end of WWI.

A time of darkness, deprivation and trauma - not only for the those who saw active service, but for those who were left behind. 

Author Siobhan O’Brien is no stranger to the publishing industry and has written for the Sydney Morning Herald, Vogue, InDesign and Monument. 

Siobhan’s other notable work was published back in 2004. A biography of Australian designer and socialite Florence Broadhurst, published by Allen & Unwin.

I was delighted to chat with Siobhan recently.

Liz Foster is a Sydney-based author originally from Britain who began her writing journey some seven years ago. 

'The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices', published by Affirm Press is her first novel. And listeners, it’s a cracker. 

A thoroughly enjoyable read about marriage, parenting, fraud, infidelity and…of all things…goat’s cheese!

I was delighted to have the chance to speak with Liz about her book and journey on the podcast recently.

Michelle Upton in a Brisbane-based author whose first novel ‘Terms of Inheritance’ was shortlisted for the Banjo Prize in 2021.  

A little over 12 months later 'Terms of Inheritance' was published by HarperCollins Australia. 

And I can see why.  With a strong hook and a cast of strong, vibrant female characters, this was one heck of a good story. Hard to believe it was Michelle’s debut, frankly.

Another 12 months on, Michelle’s second book ‘Emergency Exit Only’ was published. 

When I first picked up ‘Emergency Exit Only’ I wondered if it would live up to the spectacular arrival of her debut. And after reading it and LOVING it, I can honestly say it EXCEEDED my expectations. 

It’s a wonderful, feel-good story about second chances and opening yourself up to possibilities.  

Michelle
recently

After more than 260 interviews to this point and attendance at bookish events too numerous to count, I meet a lot of Australian authors. 

Some are well into their writing careers, others are just at the start or trying to break in like me while many are somewhere in the middle.  

So when someone I know - someone who has been trying to get published for a while - finally succeeds, it’s an occasion well worth celebrating. 

My friend, Joanne Spiers, works as an editor in her own business - Nuturing Words. And when she’s not wrangling other people’s manuscripts, Jo is writing her own.  

Her debut novel, Second Chance Love in Point Perry, was published by Harlequin’s Escape Publishing earlier this year. 

And I couldn’t be happier for Jo.  

A warm and tender story inspired by Jo’s upbringing on the Eyre Peninsula of South Australia and grief over the death of her beloved mum, Second Chance Love in Point Perry ushers a bright and promising career (and more Point Perry books) for this talented storyteller. 

I was delighted to welcome Jo to the podcast recently. 

It’s impossible not to be excited about interviewing an author whose career I have been fortunate to witness from it’s infancy. 

From the first interview I conducted with this author more than five years ago until now, this woman’s skill as a storyteller has simply gone from strength to strength.

With 4 bestselling books under her belt now, Tania Blanchard has become an international bestselling author and a powerhouse in the historical fiction space. 

I was thrilled to have the chance to speak with Tania again ahead of the release of her brand new novel, ‘A Woman of Courage’ published by HarperCollins Australia. 

Steve Matthews is the author of the bestselling Hitler trilogy: Hitler’s Brothel, Hitler’s Assassins and Hitler’s Resurrection. 

Each of these books are based on true events - constructing unique narratives and perspective around the horrific deeds and atrocities committed by the Nazi regime in World War II.

It was following the publication of Hitler’s Brothel that I first became acquainted with Steve’s fascinating work. 

This year, Steve is celebrating the publication of a new novel. A move away from the events of World War II, going back in time to examine the sacrifices, heroism and courage displayed by many who fought in the Great War. And one man in particular - Private Ted Watts. 

Filled with Steve’s trademark wit and incredible attention to detail ‘Ted Watts’ Diary’ (Big Sky Publishing) is a poignant examination of one man’s remarkable courage, determination and will to survive - despite the overwhelming obstacles he faced. Not only as a soldier, but as a man. 

Brilliantly researched, colourful and at times confronting, this is a book that doesn’t shy away from the awful toll of war, but which still remains hopeful.

A terrific read.

I was delighted to welcome Steve back to the podcast recently .

Kell Woods in an Australian historical fantasy author whose debut novel has just been released in Australia/New Zealand, the UK and the US.

Called ‘After the Forest’ Kell has written a rich, compelling and utterly remarkable fairytale retelling.   

Set in the Black Forest of Wurrtemberg during the mid-17th century, the story picks up 15 years after Greta and her brother Hans escape from an old witch and her gingerbread house. In the aftermath of a brutal war and with no one but her gambling brother to help look after her, Greta bakes the best gingerbread around in an effort to keep her family afloat.  But rumours about her continue to swirl and the superstitions of the villagers are becoming harder to keep at bay.

Weaving history, fantasy, romance and fairytale together, this book had me turning pages deep into the night and had me in awe of Kell’s storytelling abilities. 

I was thrilled to chat about this incredible book with Kell on the podcast recently.

Shelley Burr is an award-winning Australian author whose debut novel ‘Wake’ was a top five bestseller.

Published in the US and the UK as well as here in Australia, 'Wake' won the CWA Debut Dagger Award in 2019 (a UK award for an unpublished writer), it was shortlisted for the Indie Book Awards Debut Novel Award, the Kill Your Darlings Unpublished Manuscript Award and the Bath Novel Award. 

And only last week ‘Wake’ won the 2023 Ned Kelley Award for best debut crime fiction!

Recently I had the chance to speak with Shelley about her brand new novel ‘Ripper’ - which was also released by Hachette Australia last week. 

A clever, twisty novel set in a tiny town between Sydney and Melbourne: a town long past its heyday and struggling under the weight of its dark history. 

As with all the very best crime novels,  I was hooked from its opening page.

If you loved Shelley’s first book ‘Wake’, then ‘Ripper’ is a MUST-read. 
Tune in to hear Shelley talk about her rapid rise to literary fame, her inspiration for her books, writing tips and much more.

Steph Vizard is a Melbourne-based writer who won the 2022 Banjo Prize with her then unpublished manuscript 'The Love Contract'.

Twelve months on and that book has now been published by HarperCollins.

I have no doubt that readers will fall in love with this charming story about enemy neighbours - Zoe and Will - who reluctantly come to the realisation that they each had the power to help the other one out of a difficult situation. 

The question is of course, will they?  And what are the consequences?

To find out if they do or don’t you’ll have to read the book. But in the meantime you can enjoy listening to the delightful Steph and I chat about her debut novel ‘The Love Contract'.  

This was SO much fun.

Jane Harrison is an award-winning playwright and novelist as well as Festival director whose work has been performed across Australia and internationally.

Jane is descended from the Muruwari people and believes stories have the power to strengthen cultural connection. 

Jane’s YA novel ‘Becoming Kirrali Lewis’ won the 2014 Black & Write Prize and that same novel was shortlisted for the 2014 Prime Ministers Literary Award and the Victorian Premiers Award. 

Jane’s stage play ‘The Visitors’ was performed to critical acclaim at the Sydney Festival back in 2020 and a Sydney Theatre Production of the 'The Visitors' is playing at the Sydney Opera House in September 2023.

If that wasn't enough, HarperCollins has recently published Jane’s debut adult novel inspired by her hit stage show - also called ‘The Visitors’.

This is a book that reimagines a crucial moment in Australia’s history from the point of view of our First Nations people.  A story that challenges our understanding of this event by revisiting the landing of the first fleet in 1788 from the perspective of seven Aboriginal men, all of whom represent nearby clans.

A stunning, evocative and thought-provoking novel which I loved. 

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to speak with Jane about her book on the podcast recently.

Memorable books are the ones that make me feel something. Books that make me laugh or hold my breath with anticipation; stories that make me feel hopeful and most of all... the books that make me cry. These are the ones that become indelibly printed on my heart.

‘Saving Charli’ (Scholastic Australia) written by Victorian-based author, Di Walker is a book that made me feel SO many of these things all at once.

Until ‘Saving Charli’ I hadn’t read any of Di’s work.  But that’s something I’m going to have to change in the near future. 

‘Saving Charli’ is a middle-grade novel about a set of twins and their friends as they finish primary school and begin their first year of high school, trying to navigate a momentous change in their collective lives at the same time. 

Exploring friendships, family, love and loss - it’s a tender, insightful, beautifully written book which can be enjoyed by adults and kids alike.

Highly recommended reading!

I was delighted to welcome Di to the podcast recently to chat about this wonderful book. 

Veronica Lando is a crime writer who burst onto the Australian literary scene a couple of years ago when her then unpublished manuscript won the 2021 Banjo Prize. That manuscript 'The Whispering' was published by HarperCollins in 2022 to widespread acclaim.

This year, Veronica's second book 'The Drowning Girls' was also published by HarperCollins. And if it's anything like 'The Whispering', I can see why Veronica's literary star is well and truly on the rise.

Dark, tense and twisty, 'The Drowning Girls' was a story about small-town secrets underscored by the ever-present menace of a hostile landscape.

Utterly captivating.

I was super excited to chat with Veronica recently about her books and meteoric writing career.

Philippa Kaye is a mother, educator, and now published novelist who lives on the Central Coast of NSW and was inspired to write her debut novel, 'Girl Detectives Just Wanna Have Fun' during COVID.

Set in 1984, 'Girl Detectives Just Wanna Have Fun' is a pacy mystery novel flavoured with lots of fun eighties nostalgia - big hair, short skirts and shoulder pads - not to mention a spicy romance for some extra fun!

I enjoyed this novel and welcomed the chance to speak with Philippa on the podcast recently about her novel and journey to publication.

Lucy Lever is a former social worker who lives in the bush on Sydney’s coastal fringe with her husband. 

As proof that it is never too late to follow your dreams, Lucy decided to give creative writing a go later in life.  The result is 'Mystic Ridge' published earlier this month by HQ Fiction.

It was on her frequent visits to family on the NSW North Coast that Lucy found inspiration for Mystic Ridge - a delightful, contemporary novel with a fun twist on the rural romance genre. 

I was delighted to have the chance to welcome Lucy to the podcast recently to chat about her debut novel.

Since first meeting Vanessa McCausland back in 2020,  I have marvelled at her gift for evocative and unforgettable story-telling. 

First through the Lost Summers of Driftwood, then The Valley of Lost Stories, again with the The Beautiful Words and now…Dreaming in French.  

Not only is Vanessa a warm, lovely person and supportive member of the Australian writing community, but Vanessa has come to be known for her beautiful words (perhaps its no coincidence that this is one of the titles of her books). 

Released last week by HarperCollins, Vanessa's new book 'Dreaming in French' is an evocative, achingly beautiful and gut-wrenching story that will not be easily forgotten; a book that has already received rave reviews and blurbs from the likes of literary giants such Natasha Lester and Hannah Richell.

I was thrilled to welcome Vanessa back to the podcast to chat about this stunning book.

Kelly Rimmer is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author of 13 novels.  

Writing both historical and contemporary novels, Kelly’s titles include The German Wife, The Warsaw Orphan, The Things We Cannot Say and Truths I Never Told You.

Kelly has sold more than 2 million books to date. And her work has been translated into dozens of languages.

If that wasn’t impressive enough, in 2022, Kelly purchased the Collins Booksellers in Orange near where she lives with her human and furry families. 

And this year, Kelly is back with a brand new novel.  Called ‘The Paris Agent’ and set to be released by Hachette across Australia this week, this is a powerful, emotionally compelling novel that delivers everything you’d expect from one of Kelly’s novels and indeed more. 

I was super excited to welcome Kelly back to the podcast earlier this week.

Listeners, a couple of weeks ago I was at the annual Bellingen Readers and Writers Festival and had the joy of interviewing an author whose career I have been watching for a few years now.  

And recently, I got to do it all over again. 

Paul Dalgarno is a Melbourne-based author of two novels and two non-fiction titles.  

Born and raised in Scotland, Paul has lived in Australia since 2010 and has written for a variety of publications including The Guardian, Big Issue Scotland and Australian Book Review. 

Paul has worked as deputy editor of The Conversation Australia and features editor for The Herald Newspaper Group in the UK. 

Earlier this year, Paul’s second novel ‘A Country of Eternal Light’ was published by HarperCollins. And listeners, what a novel it is! 

A wonderfully perceptive, witty and brilliantly crafted examination of grief, which left me marvelling at Paul’s immense talent. 

A must-listen episode for writers and readers alike!

I first interviewed Jennifer McKenzie Dunbar back in April 2020, just after she'd self-published her debut novel, 'Vivaldi's Lost Concerto'. And what a debut it was. So much fascinating research and detail coloured the historical thread of the narrative of that book along with the harrowing experiences of a contemporary woman who had been through the prison system. Something Jennifer was able to write drawing on her experiences as a social worker.

This year, Jennifer is back with a new novel. A story that she in fact foreshadowed when we last chatted.

Called 'Missing Pieces' (Midnight Sun Publishing) this novel bears Jennifer's trade mark fascination with real historical events.

This time we learn about the discovery of a priceless hoard of medieval handcrafted chess pieces on the remote Scottish island of Lewis in 1831.

A remarkable tale. You won't want to miss this episode!

Phillipa Nefri Clark is an Australian author based in country Victoria and a USA Today best-selling author of more than 20 novels.

Her writing is not only prolific but spans a number of different genres - from romance, to mystery and crime thrillers.

Earlier this year I was offered the opportunity to read the first of Phillipa's Detective Liz Moorland novels, 'Lest We Forgive' and thoroughly enjoyed it!

A gritty, page-turning novel about bitter, reclusive ex-cop Vince who in the aftermath of his daughter's tragic death in a car crash, becomes his granddaughter's sole living relative and carer. Convinced his daughter's death was not an accident, he turns to his former colleague Detective Liz Moorland for help to catch his daughter's killer.

Knowing that Phillipa has another two planned in this series is exciting to say the least.

I was truly delighted to speak with Phillipa about this book and her successful career as an indie (self-published) author.

Robyn Cadwallader is an award winning Canberra-based author  - with three historical novels to her name, along with poems, prize-winning short stories and a non-fiction book based on her PhD thesis about virginity and female agency in the Middle Ages.

Robyn’s first novel, ‘The Anchoress’ was published in 2015 to critical acclaim and was awarded the Canberra Critics Circle Award for fiction and the ACT Book of the Year People’s Choice Award.

Her second novel, Book of Colours followed in 2018 - winning the 2019 ACT Book of the Year Award along with another Canberra Critics Circle Award AND it was shortlisted for a Voss Award. 

In early May, Robyn’s third novel ‘The Fire and The Rose’ was released by HarperCollins. 

And listeners, what a book it is.  A deeply moving, mesmerising and timeless story about a forbidden love.  A story about the power of words and a women’s fight to be with the man she loves:  going against her Church, against the law and against her King. 

A novel that explores prejudice and racism along with faith, this book left a deep and lasting impression on me.

And so it was with great delight that I welcomed Robyn to the podcast recently to chat about her marvellous new book. 

Kim Lock is an internationally published, bestselling author of five novels that include 'Peace Love and Khaki Socks', 'Like I Can Love', 'The Three of Us' and 'The Other Side of Beautiful'. 

Living in regional South Australia with her family, Kim’s writing as appeared in Kill Your Darlings, The Guardian, Daily Life and The Sydney Morning Herald amongst other publications. 

Earlier this month, Kim’s latest novel, 'The Fancies' was published by HarperCollins Australia. 

An irresistibly funny, big-hearted, sharply-observed novel about stories: the stories we tell, the stories we believe and the stories we make into reality - irrespective of their truth. 

With punchy dialogue and a cast of wonderfully drawn characters, I was quickly drawn into the fictional town of Port Kingerton and raced through the pages to try and uncover the decades-old mystery the townsfolk were desperate to keep hidden. 

This is the first of Kim’s novels I’ve read - but listeners it won’t be the last. 

Kim

Megan Rogers is a debut novelist with impeccable credentials.

Starting her working life as an editorial assistant at Allen & Unwin before taking up a position in Marketing at the State Library of Victoria Megan has a PhD in Creative Writing as well as a Bachelor of Arts/Science, a Diploma of Professional Writing and Editing, a Graduate Diploma in Professional Communication AND a Masters of Marketing. 

Incredible!

Megan penned a non-fiction book called ‘Finding the Plot, A Maternal Approach to Madness in Literature’ published by Demeter Press in 2017. 

And this month, her debut novel ‘The Heart is A Star’ was published by Harper Collins Publishers. 

Having had the pleasure of devouring this book recently, I can tell you listeners, this is a beautifully written, highly evocative and enthralling read to add to your piles. 

About a woman at the cross-roads of her life and her quest to uncover the truth behind her father’s death, 'The Heart is A Star' is a book I won’t forget in a hurry. 

I chatted with Megan about it on the podcast recently.

Rae Cairns is a Sydney-based author who shot to notoriety when her debut, self-published novel, ‘The Good Mother’ was shortlisted in 2021 for the Ned Kelly Award in the Best Debut Crime Fiction category. 

Following this auspicious event, Rae was offered a two-book deal with HarperCollins publishers and 'The Good Mother' was revised and reissued allowing even more readers to discover Rae’s storytelling prowess with this gripping thriller. 

This month, Rae is celebrating the release of her second novel ‘Dying to Know’. And I have to say, listeners, much like ‘The Good Mother’, this book was thrilling and heart-stopping in equal measures.  From it’s opening pages, Rae sinks her storytelling hooks into us and doesn’t ease up until the very end. 

With its intriguing premise, expertly researched details and propulsive action - I picked this book up on a Sunday afternoon and simply couldn’t put it down again until I was done. 

For several hours everything took a backseat to this incredible story of love, loyalty corruption, betrayal and a sister’s search for the truth. 

I absolutely loved this book and couldn’t wait to chat with Rae on the podcast again.

Jessica Dettmann's new novel 'Without Further Ado" (HarperCollins) is a delightful romantic comedy about one woman's search for love and how the stories we read and films we watch impact that journey.

Based loosely on Shakespeare's 'Much Ado About Nothing', this book had me laughing out loud.

A terrifically entertaining read filled with witty dialogue and Jessica's trademark warmth and humour.

I was thrilled to welcome Jessica back to the podcast recently.

Karina May is a Sydney-based author whose debut print novel, 'Duck À L'Orange for Breakfast' was published by Pan Macmillan at the end of March.

A fun, romantic, satisfying and oh-so-delicious book which comes with 14 delectable recipes to sink your teeth into, 'Duck À L'Orange for Breakfast' is rom-com, foodie-fiction and armchair travel rolled into one gorgeous story that will leave you wanting more. More of everything!

If that doesn't pique your interest, think 'Julie & Julia' meets 'The Flatshare' with a bit of 'Emily in Paris' thrown in for good measure.

With its warmth, humour and witty dialogue, I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

I loved welcoming Karina to the podcast recently to chat about this delightful book.

Sandie Docker burst onto the Australian literary scene in 2018 with her debut title ‘The Kookaburra Creek Cafe’ followed by 'The Cottage at Rosella Cove in 2019', 'The Banksia Bay Beach Shack' in 2020 and 'The Wattle Island Book Club' in 2022.

Each of these stories have cemented Sandie’s reputation as a masterful storyteller.  Weaving past and present timelines together in heart-wrenching, tear-inducing tales.

Sandie’s novels spotlight both the joys and challenges of living in small communities along with some fascinating, often little known aspects of Australia’s history. 

As a testament to the power of Sandie’s stories, Australia has voted Sandie’s books onto Better Reading’s top 100 — three years in a row! A magnificent achievement to be sure. 

I was more than delighted welcome Sandie back to the podcast recently to chat about her brand new novel ‘The Redgum River Retreat’ (Penguin).

Author Dianne Yarwood is a Sydney-based writer with a background in accounting and corporate advisory work, who also loves to cook.

Her debut novel 'The Wakes' (Hachette Australia) was published in early March 2023. A tender, funny and heartfelt book about two failed marriages, two strangers who fall in love, friends who start a catering business and the four funerals that connect all these people together.

A life-affirming and uplifting book that will stay with you long after you’ve finished.

I was delighted to have the opportunity to chat with Dianne recently.  

Michelle Johnston is the author of two novels and juggles her writing career with her work as an emergency physician the Royal Perth Hospital and as a Professor of Emergency Medicine at St John of God Murdoch. 

If that's not impressive enough, Michelle's debut novel 'Dustfall' was awarded the Hachette/Queensland Writers Centre Developing Manuscript Award in 2014 and later published by UWA Publishing in 2018.

Last year, Michelle's second novel 'Tiny Uncertain Miracles' was published by HarperCollins to widespread, critical acclaim. 

A tender, funny, sad and sharply-drawn novel about family, friendship, faith, love, grief and alchemy. 

I was thrilled to have the chance to speak with Michelle about it recently on the podcast. 

I first interviewed Canadian-born Ashley Kalagian Blunt in 2019 when her debut book 'My Name is Revenge' was published.

Since, Ashley has published a memoir ‘How to Be Australian’ along with other writing which has appeared in the Sydney Morning Herald, Overland, the Griffith Review of Books and Kill Your Darlings, just to name a few.

Ashely also teaches creative writing and co-hosts the popular podcast “James and Ashley Stay at Home” - a podcast about writing, creativity and health.

And this year, Ashley can add another feather to her already-crowded cap, with the publication of her much anticipated crime thriller novel ‘Dark Mode’.

A compulsive, highly relevant and riveting book, 'Dark Mode' will have you guessing until the very end. A chilling insight into the dangers we face every day, 'Dark Mode' shines a spotlight on the darkest and most disturbing aspects of society.

An absolute must-read for all crime fiction fans.

I was thrilled to welcome Ashley back to the podcast a few weeks ago.

Last year I was privileged to interview an award-winning novelist whose debut novel became an overnight sensation. 

As the winner of the illustrious Banjo Prize in 2020, Dinuka McKenzie quickly became a household name when her book 'The Torrent' was published by HarperCollins at the beginning of 2022. 

Now, in 2023, Dinuka has followed up on the success of 'The Torrent' with another brilliant book - 'Taken'.

In this novel, we pick up where 'The Torrent' left off. 

Tense and page-turning, this story had me invested from the get-go - riding alongside Detective Kate Miles as she navigates the emotional rollercoaster that is her life.  

I was delighted to have the chance to speak with Dinuka about 'Taken' earlier this year. 

Jo Dixon is one of Australia's newest debut authors.  Her novel, 'The House of Now and Then' was published in January 2023 by HQ Fiction. 

Beautifully written, evocative, intriguing and heart-rending, 'The House of Now and Then' is a tale about a decades long mystery, deadly secrets and the consequences of discovering the truth.  

I absolutely loved it and I know many of you out there will too. 

I was more than a little delighted to chat with the marvellous Jo on the podcast recently.

Just over four years ago, I had the very great fortune to interview an outstanding debut novelist.

I was relatively new to the world of podcasting then, still finding my way and, consequently, feeling like I’d won the lottery when I was handed the opportunity to speak with this brilliant author.

Listeners, I know you will feel my joy and nerves in equal measures when I tell you that author was Holly Ringland.

The much-celebrated creator of the world-wide phenomenon that was and still is 'The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart' published by HarperCollins.

Once I had recovered from my terror, speaking to Holly who was in England at the time, became a conversation I would never forget. It was overwhelming to speak with this incredible woman who has become an inspirational figure for women and writers around the globe.

And to my utter amazement, I got to do it all again.

This time in honour of Holly’s second novel, 'The Seven Skins of Esther Wilding'.

I was honoured to welcome Holly back to the podcast late last year.

Emma Harcourt is a Sydney-based writer who works a researcher and journalist as well as an author.

After completing the Faber Academy course in 2011, Emma began writing historical fiction.

The result was two novels: the first being the critically acclaimed international best-selling title 'The Shanghai Wife' published in 2018 and now 'The Brightest Star' released earlier this year by HQ Fiction.

Whilst I haven’t read 'The Shanghai Wife' yet, I was utterly enthralled by Luna’s story in 'The Brightest Star'.

As a fan of historical fiction in general, this book was a page-turning read giving its audience insight into the plight of women in Renaissance Florence - which sadly still echoes in parts of the world today.

I was excited to have the chance to speak with Emma in more detail about the book on the podcast a little while ago.

Eliza Henry-Jones is a Victorian author, freelance writer, Phd candidate and flower farmer whose previous novels have been listed for multiple literary awards.

Her work has been published in a variety of places - including The Guardian, Country Style and The Age amongst others.

In 2017, a trip to the remote Orkney Islands of Scotland highlighted Eliza’s preoccupation with hauntings and the interplay between places and traumatic events.

This in turn inspired her latest novel.

Called 'Salt and Skin' (Ultimo Press), Eliza has drawn on her experience of the Orkney Islands and penned an evocative novel steeped in history and folklore. It’s a book that explores love and family, grief and trauma and the way past hurts can continue to affect the present.

An utterly mesmerising read that I was hard-pressed to put down.

I was delighted to chat with Eliza about her novel on the podcast earlier this year. 

I love reading all types of books.  Crime, thriller, domestic noir, family drama, YA, magical realism and romance.  You name it, I probably have it on my shelf.  

But there's nothing quite like reading a rom-com for pure escapism and sheer joy. 

And that's what reading Nina Kenwood's 'Unnecessary Drama' was for me. 

Published by Text Publishing earlier this year, 'Unnecessary Drama' was a laugh-out-loud, thoroughly delightful, feel-good novel about moving out of home, life as a uni student, falling in love and dealing with what Nina refers to in the book as an 'anxious brain'. 

A book which can be enjoyed equally by young adults as well as a more mature audience.

I had a terrifically entertaining chat with Nina on the podcast earlier this year. 

Jackie Bailey is a writer who holds a PhD in creative writing from the University of NSW and whose work has appeared in a variety of publications including The Sydney Morning Herald, ScreenHub, ArtsHub and the Australian Journal of Human Rights. 

Jackie's debut novel 'The Eulogy' was published by Hardy Grant earlier this year.

A work of auto-fiction (drawing heavily on Jackie's own life and experiences), 'The Eulogy' was a moving and memorable book about death, grief and the effects of intergenerational trauma.  

I was honoured to have the chance to speak with Jackie about this exceptional book earlier this year. 

Tori Haschka is a published cookbook author who has appeared on TV programs like The Today Show and Adam Liaw's The Cook Up and has written for a variety of publications including The Times, The Sydney Morning Herald and The Guardian.  

Her first novel 'Grace Under Pressure', published in 2021, heralded a new genre of food fiction - combining her love of the gastronomic with her experiences of motherhood. 

This year Tori published her second novel - exploring these two themes once again. Called 'A Recipe for Family' (Simon & Schuster), this novel examines modern motherhood, how food connects us and what it means to be a family. 

An intelligent, insightful and relatable novel that will appeal for food lovers and readers alike.

I was delighted to welcome Tori to the podcast earlier this year. 

Vikki Petraitis is the author of the best-selling true crime books "The Frankston Murders" and "The Phillip Island Murder" as well as a podcaster - making two highly successful podcasts with Case File Presents: series which have topped charts around the world and enjoyed millions of downloads. 

More recently, Vikki won the inaugural Allen & Unwin Crime prize with her first work of fiction "The Unbelieved" (published earlier this year).

Devouring it from cover to cover, I understood why this manuscript took out the prize. 

Empowering, explosive, gritty and insightful, "The Unbelieved" is a novel that should be on everyone's must-read list. 

I was thrilled to have the chance to chat with Vikki about her remarkable book on the podcast earlier this year. 

Denise Picton's debut novel "The Family String" (Ultimo Press) is a poignant, beautifully written novel about a difficult mother-daughter relationship which explores mental health issues in the context of a faith that could not understand such issues along with the way children cope with family dynamics.

An uplifting, but at times heart-breaking novel capturing the unique, irrepressible voice of its 12 year-old protagonist Dorcas Wilson. 

I loved it and was delighted to welcome Denise to the podcast earlier this year. 

Mercedes Mercier is author of the electric debut novel "White Noise" published by HarperCollins Australia earlier this year.

Drawn from Mercedes' real-life experiences working in the Australian corrections system for almost a decade, "White Noise" is a triumph of a novel. 

I was utterly mesmerised by the world Mercedes created - exploring the ongoing effects of trauma and addiction and offering a chilling insight into the mind of a psychopath.  

A brilliant read for lovers of crime and psychological thrillers. 

Tune into the fabulous chat I recorded with Mercedes a little while back. 

Rachael Johns has been described as the 'undisputed queen of Australian women's fiction' and with a whopping 29 titles under her belt to date, I'm sure you'll agree it's an apt title. 

An award-winning author with her own online bookclub - membership of which has now reached some 5000 members - Rachael is a force to be reckoned with.  

I was more than a little delighted to have the chance to speak with Rachael ahead of the release of her new novel, 'The Work Wives' (HQ Fiction). 

A fun chat in which Rachael gives us some insight into her writing process and how she manages to pump out two titles a year, read voraciously as well as keep up with all her other work-related commitments. 

An episode not to miss!