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We'd Like A Word

We'd Like A Word

By We'd Like A Word

A podcast & radio show about words: writers, readers, books, poetry, lyrics, scripts, comedy, illustrators, agents & all things wordy.
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2. Will Dean - the author leading the British invasion into Scandi Noir / Nordic Noir

We'd Like A WordApr 01, 2019

00:00
50:34
16. Chiltern Kills crime writing festival with Frederick Forsyth

16. Chiltern Kills crime writing festival with Frederick Forsyth

16. Chiltern Kills crime writing festival with Frederick Forsyth & many more top authors: Thriller writing icon Frederick Forsyth tells We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about his legacy & his first ever appearance at a literary festival in this one-part episode. It was recorded (mostly) live at the Chiltern Kills festival in Gerrards Cross in October 2023. All ticket sales went to the Centrepoint charity combating youth homelessness.

The Chiltern Kills festival is organised by Paul Waters & fellow author Tony Kent - who also features in this episode. & whose next thriller, The Shadow Network, is out in February 2024.

We also hear from crime authors Rachel Ward, Derek Farrell, SJ Bennett, JL Blackhurst, Laura Marshall, Leye Adenle (twice), Cate Quinn, Susi Holliday & BBC and Bestsellers Pod presenters Phil Williams & Natalie Jamieson. AND exclusive news on who is appearing at Chiltern Kills 2024 on 5th October 2024.

Plus Sue Dorman, Marguerite Fletcher, Laurie Stone & others. And with thanks to Centrepoint, Sacla UK, Cipriani Bellinis, Chorleywood and Gerrards Cross Bookshops, Milton's Cottage Museum in Chalfont St Giles & Vision Care for Homeless People.

By the way - if you'd like to be a book reviewer for this podcast, get in touch via our email or socials, listed below.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, & audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul, Steve & our guests. We're on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we're embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. Paul is writing a new cosy mystery series set in contemporary Delhi - more on that anon. And if you're still stuck for something to read now, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or One Step Ahead: Notes from the Problem Solving Unit, the policing classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Dec 28, 202301:02:02
15. Jeffrey Archer on storytelling (Part 1)

15. Jeffrey Archer on storytelling (Part 1)

Jeffrey Archer on storytelling (part 1): The globally bestselling (more than 300m books sold) storyteller Jeffrey Archer tells We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan how he does it. Jeffrey takes research to extremes - he been to prison, been an MP and is now in the House of Lords. He reads from his latest rip roaring thriller is Traitors Gate - all about how to steal the Crown Jewels and get away with it. Jeffrey also breaks down his classic 100 short story, Unique, in a writing masterclass.

Jeffrey also announces the winner of the We'd Like A Word competition for a new Google Pixel Fold mobile phone (cost £1700). We spoil you on this podcast!

We also talk about in this 3 part episode: jeweller Alan Gard, Maupassant, O Henry, Ajay Chowdhury & his Detective Kamil Rahman series, Roald Dahl, Dickens, Sean Connery, Ben McIntyre & Colditz, Rula Lenska, AI - artificial intelligence, reading out loud, athlete Adrian Metcalfe, Betty Boothroyd, Barry Humphries, Paul dacre & the Daily Mail, killing dogs, counterfeit books & cricket in India, JD Salinger, the editor author partnership, Dr Who, Roy jenkins, Adrian McKinty & The Chain, F Scott Fitzgerald, Somerset Maugham, Chief Superintendent John Sutherland, Miss Potter with Renee Zellweger and Ewan McGregor, Brad Pitt, digging the plot hole even deeper, why authors should avoid biros, mortality, getting up early to write & cutting down alcohol, Richard Adams & Watership Down, rare originality, Jefferson & a missing American Declaration of Independence, & Frederick Forsyth.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, & audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul, Steve & our guests. We're on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we're embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. Paul is writing a new cosy mystery series set in contemporary Delhi - more on that anon. And if you're still stuck for something to read now, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Oct 04, 202317:54
14. Jeffrey Archer on storytelling (Part 2)

14. Jeffrey Archer on storytelling (Part 2)

Jeffrey Archer on storytelling (part 2): The globally bestselling (more than 300m books sold) storyteller Jeffrey Archer tells We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan how he does it. Jeffrey takes research to extremes - he been to prison, been an MP and is now in the House of Lords. He reads from his latest rip roaring thriller is Traitors Gate - all about how to steal the Crown Jewels and get away with it. Jeffrey also breaks down his classic 100 short story, Unique, in a writing masterclass.

Jeffrey also announces the winner of the We'd Like A Word competition for a new Google Pixel Fold mobile phone (cost £1700). We spoil you on this podcast!

We also talk about in this 3 part episode: jeweller Alan Gard, Maupassant, O Henry, Ajay Chowdhury & his Detective Kamil Rahman series, Roald Dahl, Dickens, Sean Connery, Ben McIntyre & Colditz, Rula Lenska, AI - artificial intelligence, reading out loud, athlete Adrian Metcalfe, Betty Boothroyd, Barry Humphries, Paul dacre & the Daily Mail, killing dogs, counterfeit books & cricket in India, JD Salinger, the editor author partnership, Dr Who, Roy jenkins, Adrian McKinty & The Chain, F Scott Fitzgerald, Somerset Maugham, Chief Superintendent John Sutherland, Miss Potter with Renee Zellweger and Ewan McGregor, Brad Pitt, digging the plot hole even deeper, why authors should avoid biros, mortality, getting up early to write & cutting down alcohol, Richard Adams & Watership Down, rare originality, Jefferson & a missing American Declaration of Independence, & Frederick Forsyth.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, & audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul, Steve & our guests. We're on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we're embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. Paul is writing a new cosy mystery series set in contemporary Delhi - more on that anon. And if you're still stuck for something to read now, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Oct 04, 202325:45
13. Jeffrey Archer on storytelling (Part 3)

13. Jeffrey Archer on storytelling (Part 3)

Jeffrey Archer on storytelling (part 3): The globally bestselling (more than 300m books sold) storyteller Jeffrey Archer tells We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan how he does it. Jeffrey takes research to extremes - he been to prison, been an MP and is now in the House of Lords. He reads from his latest rip roaring thriller is Traitors Gate - all about how to steal the Crown Jewels and get away with it. Jeffrey also breaks down his classic 100 short story, Unique, in a writing masterclass.

Jeffrey also announces the winner of the We'd Like A Word competition for a new Google Pixel Fold mobile phone (cost £1700). We spoil you on this podcast!

We also talk about in this 3 part episode: jeweller Alan Gard, Maupassant, O Henry, Ajay Chowdhury & his Detective Kamil Rahman series, Roald Dahl, Dickens, Sean Connery, Ben McIntyre & Colditz, Rula Lenska, AI - artificial intelligence, reading out loud, athlete Adrian Metcalfe, Betty Boothroyd, Barry Humphries, Paul dacre & the Daily Mail, killing dogs, counterfeit books & cricket in India, JD Salinger, the editor author partnership, Dr Who, Roy jenkins, Adrian McKinty & The Chain, F Scott Fitzgerald, Somerset Maugham, Chief Superintendent John Sutherland, Miss Potter with Renee Zellweger and Ewan McGregor, Brad Pitt, digging the plot hole even deeper, why authors should avoid biros, mortality, getting up early to write & cutting down alcohol, Richard Adams & Watership Down, rare originality, Jefferson & a missing American Declaration of Independence, & Frederick Forsyth.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, & audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul, Steve & our guests. We're on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we're embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. Paul is writing a new cosy mystery series set in contemporary Delhi - more on that anon. And if you're still stuck for something to read now, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Oct 04, 202313:28
12. Win a Google Pixel Fold (part 1) + Ajay Chowdhury on AI & writing

12. Win a Google Pixel Fold (part 1) + Ajay Chowdhury on AI & writing

Win a Google Pixel Fold phone + Ajay Chowdhury on AI & writing books (part 1): Crime author & tech entrepreneur Ajay Chowdhury tells We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about how he uses artificial intelligence tools to help him write his excellent Detective Kamil Rahman series. Plus answer a question in this 3-part podcast for a chance to win a brand new Google Pixel Fold mobile phone. We've heard they cost £1,700 - so it's a good prize! Hear the question, email your answer to wedlikeaword@gmail.com

Also in this 3-part episode: is it ethical or useful to use AI / artificial intelligence tools like Chat GPT to help write books? Is AI an existential threat to human creativity? Will AI put book cover designers out of work? Which of us has a third nipple and why does James Bond get his nipple arrangement all wrong>

We also talk - Lily Allen, author Jude O'Reilly, Roger Moore, Children of the Ghetto by Israel Zangwill, A Child of the Jago by Arthur Morrison, John Wyndham, John Wick, Philip Kerr, Jewish East End London, book cover designer Dan Mogford, Barry Cotter v Harry Potter, Christopher Lee, Scaramanga, India, ANPR and other surveillance, AI dating website, Honcho, the Indian epics the Ramayana & Mahabharata.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, & audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul, Steve & our guests. We're on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we're embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. Paul is writing a new cosy mystery series set in contemporary Delhi - more on that anon. And if you're still stuck for something to read now, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Aug 14, 202318:36
11. Win a Google Pixel Fold (part 2) + Ajay Chowdhury on AI & writing

11. Win a Google Pixel Fold (part 2) + Ajay Chowdhury on AI & writing

Win a Google Pixel Fold phone + Ajay Chowdhury on AI & writing books (part 2): Crime author & tech entrepreneur Ajay Chowdhury tells We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about how he uses artificial intelligence tools to help him write his excellent Detective Kamil Rahman series. Plus answer a question in this 3-part podcast for a chance to win a brand new Google Pixel Fold mobile phone. We've heard they cost £1,700 - so it's a good prize! Hear the question, email your answer to wedlikeaword@gmail.com

Also in this 3-part episode: is it ethical or useful to use AI / artificial intelligence tools like Chat GPT to help write books? Is AI an existential threat to human creativity? Will AI put book cover designers out of work? Which of us has a third nipple and why does James Bond get his nipple arrangement all wrong>

We also talk - Lily Allen, author Jude O'Reilly, Roger Moore, Children of the Ghetto by Israel Zangwill, A Child of the Jago by Arthur Morrison, John Wyndham, John Wick, Philip Kerr, Jewish East End London, book cover designer Dan Mogford, Barry Cotter v Harry Potter, Christopher Lee, Scaramanga, India, ANPR and other surveillance, AI dating website, Honcho, the Indian epics the Ramayana & Mahabharata.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, & audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul, Steve & our guests. We're on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we're embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. Paul is writing a new cosy mystery series set in contemporary Delhi - more on that anon. And if you're still stuck for something to read now, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Aug 14, 202320:20
10. Win a Google Pixel Fold (part 3) + Ajay Chowdhury on AI & writing

10. Win a Google Pixel Fold (part 3) + Ajay Chowdhury on AI & writing

Win a Google Pixel Fold phone + Ajay Chowdhury on AI & writing books (part 3): Crime author & tech entrepreneur Ajay Chowdhury tells We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about how he uses artificial intelligence tools to help him write his excellent Detective Kamil Rahman series. Plus answer a question in this 3-part podcast for a chance to win a brand new Google Pixel Fold mobile phone. We've heard they cost £1,700 - so it's a good prize! Hear the question, email your answer to wedlikeaword@gmail.com

Also in this 3-part episode: is it ethical or useful to use AI / artificial intelligence tools like Chat GPT to help write books? Is AI an existential threat to human creativity? Will AI put book cover designers out of work? Which of us has a third nipple and why does James Bond get his nipple arrangement all wrong>

We also talk - Lily Allen, author Jude O'Reilly, Roger Moore, Children of the Ghetto by Israel Zangwill, A Child of the Jago by Arthur Morrison, John Wyndham, John Wick, Philip Kerr, Jewish East End London, book cover designer Dan Mogford, Barry Cotter v Harry Potter, Christopher Lee, Scaramanga, India, ANPR and other surveillance, AI dating website, Honcho, the Indian epics the Ramayana & Mahabharata.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, & audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul, Steve & our guests. We're on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we're embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. Paul is writing a new cosy mystery series set in contemporary Delhi - more on that anon. And if you're still stuck for something to read now, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Aug 14, 202324:53
9. Amish (part 1) on writing Indian history as bestselling fiction

9. Amish (part 1) on writing Indian history as bestselling fiction

Amish (part 1) on writing Indian history as fiction: Diplomat, TV star & author Amish tells We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about writing new versions of classic Indian epics like the Ramayana. He shares how he creates bestselling series that sell millions of copies faster than any others in India. But how does he keep it exciting when most people know how these classic stories end? And what about those readers who feel they already "own" these stories & jealously police any deviations or fresh takes? How do these new tellings of old stories fit in with today's India? Plus - as Amish is also a diplomat, head of the Nehru Centre in the UK, a TV presenter & a prolific author - how does he find the time? And what role does the Goddess play in how his books make it to print? And where & why does Amish Tripathi fit in the pantheon of one-name celebrities - Beyonce, Madonna, Prince, Masaba... Amish?

Amish is the author of the Shiva Trilogy, the Ram Chandra Series, & others. His latest book, the fourth in the Ram Chandra Series, is War of Lanka. Brace yourself for all-out conflict, intrigue, strategy, philosophy and some unexpected geography. Think you know your ancient Indian history? here's a new take.

Melvyn Bragg, Eddie Izzard, Little Red Riding Hood, marriage & old British folk tales also get a mention. And we drink tea in the very grand surroundings of the Nehru Centre in London.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, & audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul, Steve & our guests. We're on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we're embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. Paul is writing a new cosy mystery series set in contemporary Delhi - more on that anon. And if you're still stuck for something to read now, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Jun 10, 202321:05
8. Amish (part 2) on writing Indian history as bestselling fiction

8. Amish (part 2) on writing Indian history as bestselling fiction

Amish (part 2) on writing Indian history as fiction: Diplomat, TV star & author Amish tells We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about writing new versions of classic Indian epics like the Ramayana. He shares how he creates bestselling series that sell millions of copies faster than any others in India. But how does he keep it exciting when most people know how these classic stories end? And what about those readers who feel they already "own" these stories & jealously police any deviations or fresh takes? How do these new tellings of old stories fit in with today's India? Plus - as Amish is also a diplomat, head of the Nehru Centre in the UK, a TV presenter & a prolific author - how does he find the time? And what role does the Goddess play in how his books make it to print? And where & why does Amish Tripathi fit in the pantheon of one-name celebrities - Beyonce, Madonna, Prince, Masaba... Amish?

Amish is the author of the Shiva Trilogy, the Ram Chandra Series, & others. His latest book, the fourth in the Ram Chandra Series, is War of Lanka. Brace yourself for all-out conflict, intrigue, strategy, philosophy and some unexpected geography. Think you know your ancient Indian history? here's a new take.

Melvyn Bragg, Eddie Izzard, Little Red Riding Hood, marriage & old British folk tales also get a mention. And we drink tea in the very grand surroundings of the Nehru Centre in London.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, & audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul, Steve & our guests. We're on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we're embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. Paul is writing a new cosy mystery series set in contemporary Delhi - more on that anon. And if you're still stuck for something to read now, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Jun 10, 202316:36
7. Amish (part 3) on writing Indian history as bestselling fiction

7. Amish (part 3) on writing Indian history as bestselling fiction

Amish (part 3) on writing Indian history as fiction: Diplomat, TV star & author Amish tells We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about writing new versions of classic Indian epics like the Ramayana. He shares how he creates bestselling series that sell millions of copies faster than any others in India. But how does he keep it exciting when most people know how these classic stories end? And what about those readers who feel they already "own" these stories & jealously police any deviations or fresh takes? How do these new tellings of old stories fit in with today's India? Plus - as Amish is also a diplomat, head of the Nehru Centre in the UK, a TV presenter & a prolific author - how does he find the time? And what role does the Goddess play in how his books make it to print? And where & why does Amish Tripathi fit in the pantheon of one-name celebrities - Beyonce, Madonna, Prince, Masaba... Amish?

Amish is the author of the Shiva Trilogy, the Ram Chandra Series, & others. His latest book, the fourth in the Ram Chandra Series, is War of Lanka. Brace yourself for all-out conflict, intrigue, strategy, philosophy and some unexpected geography. Think you know your ancient Indian history? here's a new take.

Melvyn Bragg, Eddie Izzard, Little Red Riding Hood, marriage & old British folk tales also get a mention. And we drink tea in the very grand surroundings of the Nehru Centre in London.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, & audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul, Steve & our guests. We're on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we're embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. Paul is writing a new cosy mystery series set in contemporary Delhi - more on that anon. And if you're still stuck for something to read now, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Jun 10, 202316:31
6. Romance (part 1): Movie star Michael Douglas, Georgina Moore & Becky Hunter

6. Romance (part 1): Movie star Michael Douglas, Georgina Moore & Becky Hunter

Romance (part 1): Movie star Michael Douglas, authors Georgina Moore & Becky Hunter tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about writing romance, authors supporting other authors, & reading to counter depression.

Hollywood star & double-Oscar-winning Michael Douglas has had a string of hit films including Basic Instinct, Fatal Attraction, Wall Street, Romancing the Stone, Behind the Candelabra, & Falling Down – plus producing One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. His latest is the Marvel superhero movie, Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania. He gives us his book recommendations.

Georgina Moore & Becky Hunter have worked together in book publicity & also wrote their romance books together – on Georgina’s house boat off the Isle of Wight. So they both know about publicising books and supporting each other.

Georgina is the author of The Garnett Girls, published by HQ, Harper Collins. It’s set on the Isle of Wight & in Venice. & is on loads of Best Books of 2023 lists.

Becky’s new book is One Moment, published by Corvus – Atlantic Books. It’s described as a moving novel about the life-affirming power of friendship.

We also talk about how to get the most out of publicists; mistakes authors make; the dreaded second book syndrome; the blissful ignorance of debut authors; the risks of chasing trends; the struggle to justify devoting time to writing; writing to the market for a deadline; choosing a book title; how to bounce back from rejection; why you should big up other writers & people with whom you work; authors Shari Lapena, Marian Keyes, Sophie Kinsella & Eva Rice; writing what you love; how to stay resilient & upbeat; the contemplative Japanese activity known as boketto: plus the newly invented booketto – with may be accompanied by a cornetto; the novel Less by the Pulitzer Prize-winning Andrew Sean Greer; American revolutionary hero, inventor, scientist & US declaration of independence signatory, Benjamin Franklin; and the history books, Benjamin Franklin: An American Life by Walter Isaacson, & A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France and the Birth of America, by Stacy Schiff.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, & audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul, Steve & our guests. We're on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we're embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Feb 24, 202326:40
5. Romance (part 2): Movie star Michael Douglas, Georgina Moore & Becky Hunter

5. Romance (part 2): Movie star Michael Douglas, Georgina Moore & Becky Hunter

Romance (part 2): Movie star Michael Douglas, authors Georgina Moore & Becky Hunter tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about writing romance, authors supporting other authors, & reading to counter depression.

Hollywood star & double-Oscar-winning Michael Douglas has had a string of hit films including Basic Instinct, Fatal Attraction, Wall Street, Romancing the Stone, Behind the Candelabra, & Falling Down – plus producing One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. His latest is the Marvel superhero movie, Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania. He gives us his book recommendations.

Georgina Moore & Becky Hunter have worked together in book publicity & also wrote their romance books together – on Georgina’s house boat off the Isle of Wight. So they both know about publicising books and supporting each other.

Georgina is the author of The Garnett Girls, published by HQ, Harper Collins. It’s set on the Isle of Wight & in Venice. & is on loads of Best Books of 2023 lists.

Becky’s new book is One Moment, published by Corvus – Atlantic Books. It’s described as a moving novel about the life-affirming power of friendship.

We also talk about how to get the most out of publicists; mistakes authors make; the dreaded second book syndrome; the blissful ignorance of debut authors; the risks of chasing trends; the struggle to justify devoting time to writing; writing to the market for a deadline; choosing a book title; how to bounce back from rejection; why you should big up other writers & people with whom you work; authors Shari Lapena, Marian Keyes, Sophie Kinsella & Eva Rice; writing what you love; how to stay resilient & upbeat; the contemplative Japanese activity known as boketto: plus the newly invented booketto – with may be accompanied by a cornetto; the novel Less by the Pulitzer Prize-winning Andrew Sean Greer; American revolutionary hero, inventor, scientist & US declaration of independence signatory, Benjamin Franklin; and the history books, Benjamin Franklin: An American Life by Walter Isaacson, & A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France and the Birth of America, by Stacy Schiff.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, & audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul, Steve & our guests. We're on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we're embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Feb 24, 202317:12
4. Romance (part 3): Movie star Michael Douglas, Georgina Moore & Becky Hunter

4. Romance (part 3): Movie star Michael Douglas, Georgina Moore & Becky Hunter

Romance (part 3): Movie star Michael Douglas, authors Georgina Moore & Becky Hunter tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about writing romance, authors supporting other authors, & reading to counter depression.

Hollywood star & double-Oscar-winning Michael Douglas has had a string of hit films including Basic Instinct, Fatal Attraction, Wall Street, Romancing the Stone, Behind the Candelabra, & Falling Down – plus producing One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. His latest is the Marvel superhero movie, Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania. He gives us his book recommendations.

Georgina Moore & Becky Hunter have worked together in book publicity & also wrote their romance books together – on Georgina’s house boat off the Isle of Wight. So they both know about publicising books and supporting each other.

Georgina is the author of The Garnett Girls, published by HQ, Harper Collins. It’s set on the Isle of Wight & in Venice. & is on loads of Best Books of 2023 lists.

Becky’s new book is One Moment, published by Corvus – Atlantic Books. It’s described as a moving novel about the life-affirming power of friendship.

We also talk about how to get the most out of publicists; mistakes authors make; the dreaded second book syndrome; the blissful ignorance of debut authors; the risks of chasing trends; the struggle to justify devoting time to writing; writing to the market for a deadline; choosing a book title; how to bounce back from rejection; why you should big up other writers & people with whom you work; authors Shari Lapena, Marian Keyes, Sophie Kinsella; writing what you love; how to stay resilient & upbeat; the contemplative Japanese activity known as boketto: plus the newly invented booketto – with may be accompanied by a cornetto; the novel Less by the Pulitzer Prize-winning Andrew Sean Greer; American revolutionary hero, inventor, scientist & US declaration of independence signatory, Benjamin Franklin; and the history books, Benjamin Franklin: An American Life by Walter Isaacson, & A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France and the Birth of America, by Stacy Schiff.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, & audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul, Steve & our guests. We're on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we're embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Feb 24, 202316:28
3. Climate Change Fiction (part 1): Peter May & Paul Hardisty (Season 3)

3. Climate Change Fiction (part 1): Peter May & Paul Hardisty (Season 3)

Climate Change Fiction (part 1): Peter May & Paul Hardisty tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about bringing our climate emergency into mainstream popular fiction. Peter May's new crime thriller A Winter Grave (published by riverrun), & is set in Scotland in 2051. Paul Hardisty's adventure thriller The Forcing (published by Orenda Books), & is set in a future when younger voters turn on the older generation they blame for destroying our world.

Do we need the authors of popular genre fiction to include climate emergency themes in their fiction? Lots of us ignore the science of climate change, so are stories which appeal to our imagination the way to get the message across? Do authors have a duty to reflect climate change, or does the creative heart rebel against being told what to do? Why don't more authors do it already? Is our looming climate catastrophe just too bleak? Too difficult? Do readers need happier endings? Do agents & publishers? How should authors get the balance right between waking readers up and scaring them into despairing inaction? And how do you wrap it all up in exciting, enjoyable stories?

Peter May is the bestselling author of thrillers series set in Scotland, France & China - as well as prescient standalone thrillers, like Lockdown, which predicted the pandemic lockdown. We've delved into his past already on We'd Like A Word, but had to have him back (the first time we've done this with a guest) when he came out of retirement to lead the literary vanguard trying to communicate with big audiences about climate change in a new way. He's also released an anthem by the Peter May Band to accompany A Winter Grave. You'll hear it on the show - Don't Burn The World.  (Co-written by Dennis McCoy.) You can stream it on the usual music platforms & watch the YouTube video here: Don’t Burn the World - The Peter May Band - YouTube  You can also hear Peter's previous surreal episode involving being hired as a private detective by giant geckos here: https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/9UHL9sCCPwb

Paul Hardisty lives by Australia's Great Barrier Reef. He got there from Canada via a bewildering series of steps through the world's trouble zones, including, in November, Ukraine. As a leading environmental scientist, engineer & lobbyist of politicians, he knows how urgent it is for people to wake up on climate change.

We also talk about Amitav Ghosh; resurrecting the book in your drawer that you thought would never get published; The Rig on Amazon Prime; Kate Raworth & Doughnut Economics; & Negeley Farson & The Way of a Transgressor.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Jan 23, 202320:08
2. Climate Change Fiction (part 2): Peter May & Paul Hardisty (Season 3)

2. Climate Change Fiction (part 2): Peter May & Paul Hardisty (Season 3)

Climate Change Fiction (part 2): Peter May & Paul Hardisty tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about bringing our climate emergency into mainstream popular fiction. Peter May's new crime thriller A Winter Grave (published by riverrun), & is set in Scotland in 2051. Paul Hardisty's adventure thriller The Forcing (published by Orenda Books), & is set in a future when younger voters turn on the older generation they blame for destroying our world.

Do we need the authors of popular genre fiction to include climate emergency themes in their fiction? Lots of us ignore the science of climate change, so are stories which appeal to our imagination the way to get the message across? Do authors have a duty to reflect climate change, or does the creative heart rebel against being told what to do? Why don't more authors do it already? Is our looming climate catastrophe just too bleak? Too difficult? Do readers need happier endings? Do agents & publishers? How should authors get the balance right between waking readers up and scaring them into despairing inaction? And how do you wrap it all up in exciting, enjoyable stories?

Peter May is the bestselling author of thrillers series set in Scotland, France & China - as well as prescient standalone thrillers, like Lockdown, which predicted the pandemic lockdown. We've delved into his past already on We'd Like A Word, but had to have him back (the first time we've done this with a guest) when he came out of retirement to lead the literary vanguard trying to communicate with big audiences about climate change in a new way. He's also released an anthem by the Peter May Band to accompany A Winter Grave. You'll hear it on the show - Don't Burn The World.  (Co-written by Dennis McCoy.) You can stream it on the usual music platforms & watch the YouTube video here: Don’t Burn the World - The Peter May Band - YouTube  You can also hear Peter's previous surreal episode involving being hired as a private detective by giant geckos here: https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/9UHL9sCCPwb

Paul Hardisty lives by Australia's Great Barrier Reef. He got there from Canada via a bewildering series of steps through the world's trouble zones, including, in November, Ukraine. As a leading environmental scientist, engineer & lobbyist of politicians, he knows how urgent it is for people to wake up on climate change.

We also talk about Amitav Ghosh; resurrecting the book in your drawer that you thought would never get published; The Rig on Amazon Prime; Kate Raworth & Doughnut Economics; & Negeley Farson & The Way of a Transgressor.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Jan 23, 202319:27
1. Climate Change Fiction (part 3): Peter May & Paul Hardisty (Season 3)

1. Climate Change Fiction (part 3): Peter May & Paul Hardisty (Season 3)

Climate Change Fiction (part 3): Peter May & Paul Hardisty tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about bringing our climate emergency into mainstream popular fiction. Peter May's new crime thriller A Winter Grave (published by riverrun), & is set in Scotland in 2051. Paul Hardisty's adventure thriller The Forcing (published by Orenda Books), & is set in a future when younger voters turn on the older generation they blame for destroying our world.

Do we need the authors of popular genre fiction to include climate emergency themes in their fiction? Lots of us ignore the science of climate change, so are stories which appeal to our imagination the way to get the message across? Do authors have a duty to reflect climate change, or does the creative heart rebel against being told what to do? Why don't more authors do it already? Is our looming climate catastrophe just too bleak? Too difficult? Do readers need happier endings? Do agents & publishers? How should authors get the balance right between waking readers up and scaring them into despairing inaction? And how do you wrap it all up in exciting, enjoyable stories? 

Peter May is the bestselling author of thrillers series set in Scotland, France & China - as well as prescient standalone thrillers, like Lockdown, which predicted the pandemic lockdown. We've delved into his past already on We'd Like A Word, but had to have him back (the first time we've done this with a guest) when he came out of retirement to lead the literary vanguard trying to communicate with big audiences about climate change in a new way. He's also released an anthem by the Peter May Band to accompany A Winter Grave. You'll hear it on the show - Don't Burn The World.  (Co-written by Dennis McCoy.) You can stream it on the usual music platforms & watch the YouTube video here: Don’t Burn the World - The Peter May Band - YouTube  You can also hear Peter's previous surreal episode involving being hired as a private detective by giant geckos here: https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/9UHL9sCCPwb 

Paul Hardisty lives by Australia's Great Barrier Reef. He got there from Canada via a bewildering series of steps through the world's trouble zones, including, in November, Ukraine. As a leading environmental scientist, engineer & lobbyist of politicians, he knows how urgent it is for people to wake up on climate change.

We also talk about Amitav Ghosh; resurrecting the book in your drawer that you thought would never get published; The Rig on Amazon Prime; Kate Raworth & Doughnut Economics; & Negeley Farson & The Way of a Transgressor.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Jan 23, 202329:18
63. Writing dynasties (part 1): Felix Francis, Andrew Child/Grant, Rajmohan Gandhi

63. Writing dynasties (part 1): Felix Francis, Andrew Child/Grant, Rajmohan Gandhi

Writing dynasties (part 1): Felix Francis, Andrew Child/Grant & Rajmohan Gandhi tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about taking on a big book brand or carrying on a family writing tradition. It's different from continuation novels, they say, like when Anthony Horowitz took on Ian Fleming's James Bond character (see episode 4, series 1 of We'd Like A Word with Anthony Horowitz https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/rtTQmLv7Ivb ). These are books, stories and characters with whom they have grown up. But do they try to be exactly like their predecessor or collaborator? Distinctively different? How open are they about it? Is it better to keep it a secret until you're sure that readers will like it? And what if the originator decides he maybe does not want to retire after all? How do they write? And what books are they writing next? Lots of interesting answers in this 4-part episode.

Felix Francis is the son of Richard and Mary Francis, who together created the internationally bestselling Dick Francis thrillers, set in the world of horse racing. Felix began contributing to, then co-writing, then solely authoring the Dick Francis books long before his name was on the covers. He's written 16 of them now. Where does Dick end and Felix begin? Listen to find out.

Andrew Grant - now also known as Andrew Child - is the younger brother of Lee Child (real name Jim Grant), the creator of the bestselling Jack Reacher series - which you may also know from the Tom Cruise movies or the Amazon series starring Alan Ritchson. When decided he had only 4 more books left in him, he asked his brother Andrew to collaborate with him with a view to ultimately taking over. (Though that particular plot thickens...) But Andrew was already a successful thriller author in his own right. And he has a personal past cloaked in mystery.

Rajmohan Gandhi was a teenager when he was inspired to investigate how the world works and to write about it when his grandfather, the Mahatma, Mohandas Gandhi was assassinated in 1948. He spoke to We'd Like A Word at the Khushwant Singh Literary Festival in Kasauli in India. It's hard to think of a more famous forebear than Gandhi. So how does Rajmohan fit into the tradition?

Lots of other authors, people & topics get discussed too - Tasha Alexander (the Lady Emily Ashton mysteries), Ben McIntyre, Desmond Bagley, Alistair Maclean, Alan Davies (Just Ignore Him), Arthur Ransome (Swallows and Amazons), Paul Gallico (The Snow Goose), Airey Neave and PD James.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Dec 13, 202223:25
62. Writing dynasties (part 2): Felix Francis, Andrew Child/Grant, Rajmohan Gandhi

62. Writing dynasties (part 2): Felix Francis, Andrew Child/Grant, Rajmohan Gandhi

Writing dynasties (part 2): Felix Francis, Andrew Child/Grant & Rajmohan Gandhi tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about taking on a big book brand or carrying on a family writing tradition. It's different from continuation novels, they say, like when Anthony Horowitz took on Ian Fleming's James Bond character (see episode 4, series 1 of We'd Like A Word with Anthony Horowitz https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/rtTQmLv7Ivb ). These are books, stories and characters with whom they have grown up. But do they try to be exactly like their predecessor or collaborator? Distinctively different? How open are they about it? Is it better to keep it a secret until you're sure that readers will like it? And what if the originator decides he maybe does not want to retire after all? How do they write? And what books are they writing next? Lots of interesting answers in this 4-part episode.

Felix Francis is the son of Richard and Mary Francis, who together created the internationally bestselling Dick Francis thrillers, set in the world of horse racing. Felix began contributing to, then co-writing, then solely authoring the Dick Francis books long before his name was on the covers. He's written 16 of them now. Where does Dick end and Felix begin? Listen to find out.

Andrew Grant - now also known as Andrew Child - is the younger brother of Lee Child (real name Jim Grant), the creator of the bestselling Jack Reacher series - which you may also know from the Tom Cruise movies or the Amazon series starring Alan Ritchson. When decided he had only 4 more books left in him, he asked his brother Andrew to collaborate with him with a view to ultimately taking over. (Though that particular plot thickens...) But Andrew was already a successful thriller author in his own right. And he has a personal past cloaked in mystery.

Rajmohan Gandhi was a teenager when he was inspired to investigate how the world works and to write about it when his grandfather, the Mahatma, Mohandas Gandhi was assassinated in 1948. He spoke to We'd Like A Word at the Khushwant Singh Literary Festival in Kasauli in India. It's hard to think of a more famous forebear than Gandhi. So how does Rajmohan fit into the tradition?

Lots of other authors, people & topics get discussed too - Tasha Alexander (the Lady Emily Ashton mysteries), Ben McIntyre, Desmond Bagley, Alistair Maclean, Alan Davies (Just Ignore Him), Arthur Ransome (Swallows and Amazons), Paul Gallico (The Snow Goose), Airey Neave and PD James.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Dec 13, 202219:37
61. Writing dynasties (part 3): Felix Francis, Andrew Child/Grant, Rajmohan Gandhi

61. Writing dynasties (part 3): Felix Francis, Andrew Child/Grant, Rajmohan Gandhi

Writing dynasties (part 3): Felix Francis, Andrew Child/Grant & Rajmohan Gandhi tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about taking on a big book brand or carrying on a family writing tradition. It's different from continuation novels, they say, like when Anthony Horowitz took on Ian Fleming's James Bond character (see episode 4, series 1 of We'd Like A Word with Anthony Horowitz https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/rtTQmLv7Ivb ). These are books, stories and characters with whom they have grown up. But do they try to be exactly like their predecessor or collaborator? Distinctively different? How open are they about it? Is it better to keep it a secret until you're sure that readers will like it? And what if the originator decides he maybe does not want to retire after all? How do they write? And what books are they writing next? Lots of interesting answers in this 4-part episode.

Felix Francis is the son of Richard and Mary Francis, who together created the internationally bestselling Dick Francis thrillers, set in the world of horse racing. Felix began contributing to, then co-writing, then solely authoring the Dick Francis books long before his name was on the covers. He's written 16 of them now. Where does Dick end and Felix begin? Listen to find out.

Andrew Grant - now also known as Andrew Child - is the younger brother of Lee Child (real name Jim Grant), the creator of the bestselling Jack Reacher series - which you may also know from the Tom Cruise movies or the Amazon series starring Alan Ritchson. When decided he had only 4 more books left in him, he asked his brother Andrew to collaborate with him with a view to ultimately taking over. (Though that particular plot thickens...) But Andrew was already a successful thriller author in his own right. And he has a personal past cloaked in mystery.

Rajmohan Gandhi was a teenager when he was inspired to investigate how the world works and to write about it when his grandfather, the Mahatma, Mohandas Gandhi was assassinated in 1948. He spoke to We'd Like A Word at the Khushwant Singh Literary Festival in Kasauli in India. It's hard to think of a more famous forebear than Gandhi. So how does Rajmohan fit into the tradition?

Lots of other authors, people & topics get discussed too - Tasha Alexander (the Lady Emily Ashton mysteries), Ben McIntyre, Desmond Bagley, Alistair Maclean, Alan Davies (Just Ignore Him), Arthur Ransome (Swallows and Amazons), Paul Gallico (The Snow Goose), Airey Neave and PD James.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Dec 13, 202224:53
60. Writing dynasties (part 4): Felix Francis, Andrew Child/Grant, Rajmohan Gandhi

60. Writing dynasties (part 4): Felix Francis, Andrew Child/Grant, Rajmohan Gandhi

Writing dynasties (part 4): Felix Francis, Andrew Child/Grant & Rajmohan Gandhi tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about taking on a big book brand or carrying on a family writing tradition. It's different from continuation novels, they say, like when Anthony Horowitz took on Ian Fleming's James Bond character (see episode 4, series 1 of We'd Like A Word with Anthony Horowitz https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/rtTQmLv7Ivb ). These are books, stories and characters with whom they have grown up. But do they try to be exactly like their predecessor or collaborator? Distinctively different? How open are they about it? Is it better to keep it a secret until you're sure that readers will like it? And what if the originator decides he maybe does not want to retire after all? How do they write? And what books are they writing next? Lots of interesting answers in this 4-part episode.

Felix Francis is the son of Richard and Mary Francis, who together created the internationally bestselling Dick Francis thrillers, set in the world of horse racing. Felix began contributing to, then co-writing, then solely authoring the Dick Francis books long before his name was on the covers. He's written 16 of them now. Where does Dick end and Felix begin? Listen to find out.

Andrew Grant - now also known as Andrew Child - is the younger brother of Lee Child (real name Jim Grant), the creator of the bestselling Jack Reacher series - which you may also know from the Tom Cruise movies or the Amazon series starring Alan Ritchson. When decided he had only 4 more books left in him, he asked his brother Andrew to collaborate with him with a view to ultimately taking over. (Though that particular plot thickens...) But Andrew was already a successful thriller author in his own right. And he has a personal past cloaked in mystery.

Rajmohan Gandhi was a teenager when he was inspired to investigate how the world works and to write about it when his grandfather, the Mahatma, Mohandas Gandhi was assassinated in 1948. He spoke to We'd Like A Word at the Khushwant Singh Literary Festival in Kasauli in India. It's hard to think of a more famous forebear than Gandhi. So how does Rajmohan fit into the tradition?

Lots of other authors, people & topics get discussed too - Tasha Alexander (the Lady Emily Ashton mysteries), Ben McIntyre, Desmond Bagley, Alistair Maclean, Alan Davies (Just Ignore Him), Arthur Ransome (Swallows and Amazons), Paul Gallico (The Snow Goose), Airey Neave and PD James.  

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Dec 13, 202226:07
59. Writing history & India (part 1): Shashi Tharoor & William Dalrymple

59. Writing history & India (part 1): Shashi Tharoor & William Dalrymple

Writing history & India (part 1): Shashi Tharoor & William Dalrymple tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about how they write history, how they got started, why history is important, how history is used as a weapon in today's culture wars, & who has the right to write a country's history. Shashi tells us about his least favourite historian. And William dodges some extreme criticism of the bullet-from-a-gun variety & has a happy reunion with a lost manuscript. We also investigate the rumours that the character of Indiana Jones was based on William.

Shashi Tharoor is former Under-Secretary General of the United Nations, former Indian Government minister, Member of the Indian Parliament, prolific author & historian. His many books include Riot, India: From Midnight to the Millennium, Nehru: The Invention of India, & An Era of Darkness: The British Empire in India also published under the title Inglorious Empire: What the British Did to India.

William Dalrymple is one of the co-founders and co-directors of the Jaipur Literary Festival, a broadcaster, curator and the author of many books, including In Xanadu, City of Djinns: A Year in Delhi, White Mughals, The Last Mughal: The Fall of a Dynasty Delhi 1857, Return of a King: The Battle for Afghanistan, Koh-i-Noor: The History of the World's Most Infamous Diamond (with Anita Anand) & The Anarchy: The Relentless Rise of the East India Company.

Lots of other authors, people & topics get a mention too - JP Martin's Uncle books, Barabar Tuchmann's The March of Folly: Troy to Vietnam, Anita Anand, Stephen Fry, Gabriel Byrne, Samson Kambalu and the 4th Plinth, Americanisms, Captain WE Johns & Biggles, Operations Bellows, Enid Blyton, The Six Solvers, contested histories, the evolution of language, bloodthirsty St Agnes, Cornish & Irish giants, The Goodies, Sachin Tendulkar, Shah Rukh Khan, Narendra Modi, Neil Jordan's Lord Edward and Citizen Small, Victoria and Abdul, & Miki Berenyi (formerly of Lush, & who has an excellent memoir just out fingers crossed: how music saved me from success).

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Sep 23, 202228:24
58. Writing history & India (part 2): Shashi Tharoor & William Dalrymple

58. Writing history & India (part 2): Shashi Tharoor & William Dalrymple

Writing history & India (part 2): Shashi Tharoor & William Dalrymple tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about how they write history, how they got started, why history is important, how history is used as a weapon in today's culture wars, & who has the right to write a country's history. Shashi tells us about his least favourite historian. And William dodges some extreme criticism of the bullet-from-a-gun variety & has a happy reunion with a lost manuscript. We also investigate the rumours that the character of Indiana Jones was based on William.

Shashi Tharoor is former Under-Secretary General of the United Nations, former Indian Government minister, Member of the Indian Parliament, prolific author & historian. His many books include Riot, India: From Midnight to the Millennium, Nehru: The Invention of India, & An Era of Darkness: The British Empire in India also published under the title Inglorious Empire: What the British Did to India.

William Dalrymple is one of the co-founders and co-directors of the Jaipur Literary Festival, a broadcaster, curator and the author of many books, including In Xanadu, City of Djinns: A Year in Delhi, White Mughals, The Last Mughal: The Fall of a Dynasty Delhi 1857, Return of a King: The Battle for Afghanistan, Koh-i-Noor: The History of the World's Most Infamous Diamond (with Anita Anand) & The Anarchy: The Relentless Rise of the East India Company.

Lots of other authors, people & topics get a mention too - JP Martin's Uncle books, Barabar Tuchmann's The March of Folly: Troy to Vietnam, Anita Anand, Stephen Fry, Gabriel Byrne, Samson Kambalu and the 4th Plinth, Americanisms, Captain WE Johns & Biggles, Operations Bellows, Enid Blyton, The Six Solvers, contested histories, the evolution of language, bloodthirsty St Agnes, Cornish & Irish giants, The Goodies, Sachin Tendulkar, Shah Rukh Khan, Narendra Modi, Neil Jordan's Lord Edward and Citizen Small, Victoria and Abdul, & Miki Berenyi (formerly of Lush, & who has an excellent memoir just out fingers crossed: how music saved me from success).

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Sep 23, 202243:31
57. Writing history & India (part 3): Shashi Tharoor & William Dalrymple

57. Writing history & India (part 3): Shashi Tharoor & William Dalrymple

Writing history & India (part 3): Shashi Tharoor & William Dalrymple tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan about how they write history, how they got started, why history is important, how history is used as a weapon in today's culture wars, & who has the right to write a country's history. Shashi tells us about his least favourite historian. And William dodges some extreme criticism of the bullet-from-a-gun variety & has a happy reunion with a lost manuscript. We also investigate the rumours that the character of Indiana Jones was based on William.

Shashi Tharoor is former Under-Secretary General of the United Nations, former Indian Government minister, Member of the Indian Parliament, prolific author & historian. His many books include Riot, India: From Midnight to the Millennium, Nehru: The Invention of India, & An Era of Darkness: The British Empire in India also published under the title Inglorious Empire: What the British Did to India. 

William Dalrymple is one of the co-founders and co-directors of the Jaipur Literary Festival, a broadcaster, curator and the author of many books, including In Xanadu, City of Djinns: A Year in Delhi, White Mughals, The Last Mughal: The Fall of a Dynasty Delhi 1857, Return of a King: The Battle for Afghanistan, Koh-i-Noor: The History of the World's Most Infamous Diamond (with Anita Anand) & The Anarchy: The Relentless Rise of the East India Company.

Lots of other authors, people & topics get a mention too - JP Martin's Uncle books, Barabar Tuchmann's The March of Folly: Troy to Vietnam, Anita Anand, Stephen Fry, Gabriel Byrne, Samson Kambalu and the 4th Plinth, Americanisms, Captain WE Johns & Biggles, Operations Bellows, Enid Blyton, The Six Solvers, contested histories, the evolution of language, bloodthirsty St Agnes, Cornish & Irish giants, The Goodies, Sachin Tendulkar, Shah Rukh Khan, Narendra Modi, Neil Jordan's Lord Edward and Citizen Small, Victoria and Abdul, & Miki Berenyi (formerly of Lush, & who has an excellent memoir just out fingers crossed: how music saved me from success).

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Sep 23, 202228:13
56. Diversity & short story anthologies (part 1): Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow

56. Diversity & short story anthologies (part 1): Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow

Diversity & short story anthologies (part 1): Authors Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan how they edited their recently published short story anthologies. Vaseem is co-editor (With Maxim Jakubowski) of The Perfect Crime: 22 Crime Stories from Diverse Cultures Around the World, published by Harper Collins. Ivy is editor of Asian Anthology: New Writing Volume 1, published by Leopard Print. We talk about getting diverse voices published, about cultural appropriation & avoiding "rule by the mob", how they choose who to include, what to do if you want to get your own story into an anthology, what editors love and what they hate, and we hear excerpts of some of the stories read by their authors.

These two short story anthologies take different approaches - open call v selected authors, big names v unknowns, genre framework v very loose theme. And the editors take different approaches on how they edit. For instance, if we do not generally put the word spaghetti in italics, why should we treat mee mamak any differently? Discuss...

Lots of other authors/publishers get a mention too - Dotun Adebayo and his XPress, Hachette, Will Dean, Neil Jordan, EP Chiew, Ewan Lawrie, Tess Gerritsen, Jabba the Hut creator John Coppinger, SA Cosby, Walter Mosley, and more.

We recommend both The Perfect Crime and Asian Anthology, but their editors are also authors in their own right with books out recently. Ivy Ngeow is the author of fiction and non-fiction including on fitness, health & cooking. Her latest thriller is White Crane Strikes. Vaseem Khan is the author of the Baby Ganesh Detective Agency & Malabar House crime fiction novels set in India.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller \by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Jul 12, 202216:16
55. Diversity & short story anthologies (part 2): Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow

55. Diversity & short story anthologies (part 2): Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow

Diversity & short story anthologies (part 2): Authors Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan how they edited their recently published short story anthologies. Vaseem is co-editor (With Maxim Jakubowski) of The Perfect Crime: 22 Crime Stories from Diverse Cultures Around the World, published by Harper Collins. Ivy is editor of Asian Anthology: New Writing Volume 1, published by Leopard Print. We talk about getting diverse voices published, about cultural appropriation & avoiding "rule by the mob", how they choose who to include, what to do if you want to get your own story into an anthology, what editors love and what they hate, and we hear excerpts of some of the stories read by their authors.

These two short story anthologies take different approaches - open call v selected authors, big names v unknowns, genre framework v very loose theme. And the editors take different approaches on how they edit. For instance, if we do not generally put the word spaghetti in italics, why should we treat mee mamak any differently? Discuss...

Lots of other authors/publishers get a mention too - Dotun Adebayo and his XPress, Hachette, Will Dean, Neil Jordan, EP Chiew, Ewan Lawrie, Tess Gerritsen, Jabba the Hut creator John Coppinger, SA Cosby, Walter Mosley, and more.

We recommend both The Perfect Crime and Asian Anthology, but their editors are also authors in their own right with books out recently. Ivy Ngeow is the author of fiction and non-fiction including on fitness, health & cooking. Her latest thriller is White Crane Strikes. Vaseem Khan is the author of the Baby Ganesh Detective Agency & Malabar House crime fiction novels set in India.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller \by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Jul 12, 202221:17
54. Diversity & short story anthologies (part 3): Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow

54. Diversity & short story anthologies (part 3): Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow

Diversity & short story anthologies (part 3): Authors Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow tell We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan how they edited their recently published short story anthologies. Vaseem is co-editor (With Maxim Jakubowski) of The Perfect Crime: 22 Crime Stories from Diverse Cultures Around the World, published by Harper Collins. Ivy is editor of Asian Anthology: New Writing Volume 1, published by Leopard Print. We talk about getting diverse voices published, about cultural appropriation & avoiding "rule by the mob", how they choose who to include, what to do if you want to get your own story into an anthology, what editors love and what they hate, and we hear excerpts of some of the stories read by their authors.

These two short story anthologies take different approaches - open call v selected authors, big names v unknowns, genre framework v very loose theme. And the editors take different approaches on how they edit. For instance, if we do not generally put the word spaghetti in italics, why should we treat mee mamak any differently? Discuss... 

Lots of other authors/publishers get a mention too - Dotun Adebayo and his XPress, Hachette, Will Dean, Neil Jordan, EP Chiew, Ewan Lawrie, Tess Gerritsen, Jabba the Hut creator John Coppinger, SA Cosby, Walter Mosley, and more.

We recommend both The Perfect Crime and Asian Anthology, but their editors are also authors in their own right with books out recently. Ivy Ngeow is the author of fiction and non-fiction including on fitness, health & cooking. Her latest thriller is White Crane Strikes. Vaseem Khan is the author of the Baby Ganesh Detective Agency & Malabar House crime fiction novels set in India.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller \by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Jul 12, 202232:22
53. Independent Bookshop Week with Conn Iggulden, Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow

53. Independent Bookshop Week with Conn Iggulden, Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow

53. Independent Bookshop Week with Conn Iggulden, Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow: In this one-part minisode of the We'd Like A Word books & authors podcast, hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan hear from writers Conn Iggulden, Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow about their favourite indie bookshops, and visit Sheryl Surville, owner of the Chorleywood and Gerrards Cross bookshops in Buckinghamshire. The Newham Bookshop in London, No Alibis in Belfast, the Marlow Bookshop & Silverfish Books in Kuala Lumpur also get a mention. We hear what makes a successful indie bookshop, how they put up with authors, how self-published authors can get stocked on their shelves, & about events that take unexpected turns. Also, we reel in shock from a revelation about Conn Iggulden's true identity!

Conn Iggulden writes historical fiction, including the Emperor and Conqueror series. He co-authored with his brother Hal, The Dangerous Book for Boys. In 2007 Conn became the first person to top the UK fiction & non-fiction charts at the same time.

Vaseem Khan is the author of the Baby Ganesh Detective Agency & Malabar House crime fiction novels set in India. 

Ivy Ngeow's latest thriller is White Crane Strikes. She also writes non-fiction books on fitness, health & cooking.

The next episode of We'd Like A Word will be about short story anthologies - how to create them, how to get into them & how to make them more diverse - with authors & editors Vaseem Khan & Ivy Ngeow. 

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller \by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Jun 21, 202228:07
52. Will Carver (part 1) & the nature of evil - at Milton's Cottage Museum

52. Will Carver (part 1) & the nature of evil - at Milton's Cottage Museum

52. Cult author Will Carver (part 1) joins We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan to discuss the nature of evil, in front of a live audience inside the historic & beautiful Milton's Cottage in Chalfont St Giles, where John Milton dictated the epic poem, Paradise Lost. This event was for a select audience as part of the Chalfont St Giles & Jordans Literary Festival. Being there in person was great - and there was wine - but now you can eavesdrop on a very personal & existential session with searching questions from the audience. (And some "other" questions from Paul & Steve.) Will Carver's prolific output includes Girl 4, The Two, Dead Set & The Killer Inside (all part of the Detective Inspector January David series), and for Orenda Publishers, his current series - Good Samaritans, Nothing Important Happened Today, Hinton Hollow Death Trip (narrated by EVIL itself - or should that be, himself?), The Beresford, Psychopaths Anonymous & The Daves Next Door. Will writes crime fiction but always with a weird twist. Some fans of Will's books - well, Paul specifically - say they make them deeply uneasy, but they can't look away every time Will writes another disturbing and compelling thriller. You should read them to. You can get signed copies from Four Bear Books in Caversham, near Reading. The shop website is https://www.facebook.com/fourbearsbooksuk/about

You should also visit Milton's Cottage Museum in Chalfont St Giles. It's the only place still around where John Milton lived & worked. Very atmospheric. Listed building. The beautiful garden is listed too. Friendly & knowledgeable guides too. A good day out in a chocolate box English village - pond, ducks, green, half-timbered houses, v good deli/cafe.

The next episode of We'd Like A Word will be about Independent Bookshop week - with author Conn Iggulden.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller \by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Jun 06, 202217:52
51. Will Carver (part 2) & the nature of evil - at Milton's Cottage Museum

51. Will Carver (part 2) & the nature of evil - at Milton's Cottage Museum

51. Cult author Will Carver (part 2) joins We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan to discuss the nature of evil, in front of a live audience inside the historic & beautiful Milton's Cottage in Chalfont St Giles, where John Milton dictated the epic poem, Paradise Lost. This event was for a select audience as part of the Chalfont St Giles & Jordans Literary Festival. Being there in person was great - and there was wine - but now you can eavesdrop on a very personal & existential session with searching questions from the audience. (And some "other" questions from Paul & Steve.) Will Carver's prolific output includes Girl 4, The Two, Dead Set & The Killer Inside (all part of the Detective Inspector January David series), and for Orenda Publishers, his current series - Good Samaritans, Nothing Important Happened Today, Hinton Hollow Death Trip (narrated by EVIL itself - or should that be, himself?), The Beresford, Psychopaths Anonymous & The Daves Next Door. Will writes crime fiction but always with a weird twist. Some fans of Will's books - well, Paul specifically - say they make them deeply uneasy, but they can't look away every time Will writes another disturbing and compelling thriller. You should read them to. You can get signed copies from Four Bear Books in Caversham, near Reading. The shop website is https://www.facebook.com/fourbearsbooksuk/about

You should also visit Milton's Cottage Museum in Chalfont St Giles. It's the only place still around where John Milton lived & worked. Very atmospheric. Listed building. The beautiful garden is listed too. Friendly & knowledgeable guides too. A good day out in a chocolate box English village - pond, ducks, green, half-timbered houses, v good deli/cafe.

The next episode of We'd Like A Word will be about Independent Bookshop week - with author Conn Iggulden.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller \by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Jun 06, 202215:50
50. Will Carver (part 3) & the nature of evil at Milton's Cottage Museum

50. Will Carver (part 3) & the nature of evil at Milton's Cottage Museum

50. Cult author Will Carver (part 3) joins We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan to discuss the nature of evil, in front of a live audience inside the historic & beautiful Milton's Cottage in Chalfont St Giles, where John Milton dictated the epic poem, Paradise Lost. This event was for a select audience as part of the Chalfont St Giles & Jordans Literary Festival. Being there in person was great - and there was wine - but now you can eavesdrop on a very personal & existential session with searching questions from the audience. (And some "other" questions from Paul & Steve.) Will Carver's prolific output includes Girl 4, The Two, Dead Set & The Killer Inside (all part of the Detective Inspector January David series), and for Orenda Publishers, his current series - Good Samaritans, Nothing Important Happened Today, Hinton Hollow Death Trip (narrated by EVIL itself - or should that be, himself?), The Beresford, Psychopaths Anonymous & The Daves Next Door. Will writes crime fiction but always with a weird twist. Some fans of Will's books - well, Paul specifically - say they make them deeply uneasy, but they can't look away every time Will writes another disturbing and compelling thriller. You should read them to. You can get signed copies from Four Bear Books in Caversham, near Reading. The shop website is https://www.facebook.com/fourbearsbooksuk/about 

You should also visit Milton's Cottage Museum in Chalfont St Giles. It's the only place still around where John Milton lived & worked. Very atmospheric. Listed building. The beautiful garden is listed too. Friendly & knowledgeable guides too. A good day out in a chocolate box English village - pond, ducks, green, half-timbered houses, v good deli/cafe.

The next episode of We'd Like A Word will be about Independent Bookshop week - with author Conn Iggulden.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown, the thriller \by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Jun 06, 202223:00
49. Rachael Blok in Milton's Cottage (part 1): How Paradise Lost inspired her book The Fall

49. Rachael Blok in Milton's Cottage (part 1): How Paradise Lost inspired her book The Fall

49. Rachael Blok (part 1) joins We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan, & a live audience inside the historic & beautiful Milton's Cottage in Chalfont St Giles, where John Milton wrote (or dictated) the epic poem, Paradise Lost. We're inside this little living museum because Rachael's new book, The Fall, is inspired by Paradise Lost. It begins - small spoiler alert - with someone plummeting from a great height - from the top of St Alban's Cathedral. So we talk about Satan, heaven & hell, the very rough deal for women in Paradise Lost & Milton's influence more generally. But we also talk about how Rachael writes her books - this is the fourth in her DCI Maartin Jansen series. Her method is different from everyone else we've had on We'd Like A Word so far, & it's worth considering if you're an author yourself. We also hear a shocking revelation about the series, about what's coming next from Rachael, where she gets her inspiration, & how accurate police procedurals have to be. Happily, Paul & Steve are not having to come up with all the questions themselves - the live audience, many of whom are from the Chesham Bois book group near Amersham, have lots to contribute.

The next episode of We'd Like A Word will feature Will Carver as part of the Chalfont St Giles and Jordans Literary Festival - tickets are available via the festival website or Milton's Cottage Museum (via Eventbrite). The recording in front of an audience will take place inside Milton's Cottage. Will is the author of Hinton Hollow Death Trip, The Beresford, Psychopaths Anonymous & also disturbing & compelling thrillers. We'll be talking about The Nature of Evil. You should join us in person (or listen later via your podcast platform).

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Apr 27, 202221:34
48. Rachael Blok in Milton's Cottage (part 2): How Paradise Lost inspired her book The Fall

48. Rachael Blok in Milton's Cottage (part 2): How Paradise Lost inspired her book The Fall

48. Rachael Blok (part 2) joins We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan, & a live audience inside the historic & beautiful Milton's Cottage in Chalfont St Giles, where John Milton wrote (or dictated) the epic poem, Paradise Lost. We're inside this little living museum because Rachael's new book, The Fall, is inspired by Paradise Lost. It begins - small spoiler alert - with someone plummeting from a great height - from the top of St Alban's Cathedral. So we talk about Satan, heaven & hell, the very rough deal for women in Paradise Lost & Milton's influence more generally. But we also talk about how Rachael writes her books - this is the fourth in her DCI Maartin Jansen series. Her method is different from everyone else we've had on We'd Like A Word so far, & it's worth considering if you're an author yourself. We also hear a shocking revelation about the series, about what's coming next from Rachael, where she gets her inspiration, & how accurate police procedurals have to be. Happily, Paul & Steve are not having to come up with all the questions themselves - the live audience, many of whom are from the Chesham Bois book group near Amersham, have lots to contribute.

The next episode of We'd Like A Word will feature Will Carver as part of the Chalfont St Giles and Jordans Literary Festival - tickets are available via the festival website or Milton's Cottage Museum (via Eventbrite). The recording in front of an audience will take place inside Milton's Cottage. Will is the author of Hinton Hollow Death Trip, The Beresford, Psychopaths Anonymous & also disturbing & compelling thrillers. We'll be talking about The Nature of Evil. You should join us in person (or listen later via your podcast platform).

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Apr 27, 202218:41
47. Rachael Blok in Milton's Cottage (part 3): How Paradise Lost inspired her book The Fall

47. Rachael Blok in Milton's Cottage (part 3): How Paradise Lost inspired her book The Fall

47. Rachael Blok (part 3) joins We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan, & a live audience inside the historic & beautiful Milton's Cottage in Chalfont St Giles, where John Milton wrote (or dictated) the epic poem, Paradise Lost. We're inside this little living museum because Rachael's new book, The Fall, is inspired by Paradise Lost. It begins - small spoiler alert - with someone plummeting from a great height - from the top of St Alban's Cathedral. So we talk about Satan, heaven & hell, the very rough deal for women in Paradise Lost & Milton's influence more generally. But we also talk about how Rachael writes her books - this is the fourth in her DCI Maartin Jansen series. Her method is different from everyone else we've had on We'd Like A Word so far, & it's worth considering if you're an author yourself. We also hear a shocking revelation about the series, about what's coming next from Rachael, where she gets her inspiration, & how accurate police procedurals have to be. Happily, Paul & Steve are not having to come up with all the questions themselves - the live audience, many of whom are from the Chesham Bois book group near Amersham, have lots to contribute.

The next episode of We'd Like A Word will feature Will Carver as part of the Chalfont St Giles and Jordans Literary Festival - tickets are available via the festival website or Milton's Cottage Museum (via Eventbrite). The recording in front of an audience will take place inside Milton's Cottage. Will is the author of Hinton Hollow Death Trip, The Beresford, Psychopaths Anonymous & also disturbing & compelling thrillers. We'll be talking about The Nature of Evil. You should join us in person (or listen later via your podcast platform).

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings, the new comic classic by Stevyn Colgan.

Apr 27, 202231:23
46. Writers in Pakistan & India (part 1): Awais Khan, Amitav Ghosh & Vikram Chandra

46. Writers in Pakistan & India (part 1): Awais Khan, Amitav Ghosh & Vikram Chandra

46. Writers in Pakistan & India (part 1): Awais Khan, Amitav Ghosh & Vikram Chandra join presenters Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan on the We'd Like A Word books & authors podcast, with insights into how they write, advice for new authors & books they love. Awais Khan, from Lahore in Pakistan, is the author of two novels - In The Company of Strangers (published by Simon & Schuster India, & soon to be published in the UK by Hera) & No Honour (published by Orenda Books - we had the publisher Karen Sullivan on a previous hilarious and revealing episode of We'd Like A Word). In The Company of Strangers is being made into a feature for Pikchur TV online streaming service. Awais is also the founder of The Writing Institute in Lahore.

Awais talks agents, Annette Crossland, overcoming discouragement, how to schedule your writing, Jackie Collins, how to be socially relevant, the problem of counterfeit books in Pakistan, if you can be a writer while holding down a day job, his experience of The Faber Academy, Liberty Books, the Indian/Pakistan trade embargo, forced marriage & so-called honour killings, and the Edhi Foundation. We also hear about comic novels and Steve's Dad - also an author & a friend of Daphne du Maurier.

Amitav Ghosh is the renowned Indian author of the Sea of Poppies trilogy & more recently, Jungle Nama. His writing advice is to write the book you would love to read yourself, or that would make you laugh or cry. He recommends Barkskins by Annie Proulx.

Vikram Chandra is most famous for writing Sacred Games, which was made into the extremely popular Netflix series of the same name. He advises new authors to follow their obsessions & ignore the received wisdom that you should write what you know. On the contrary, he says you should write what you do not know, what obsesses you. He recommends Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings (the new comic classic, just out) by Stevyn Colgan.

Mar 22, 202221:03
45. Writers in Pakistan & India (part 2): Awais Khan, Amitav Ghosh & Vikram Chandra

45. Writers in Pakistan & India (part 2): Awais Khan, Amitav Ghosh & Vikram Chandra

45. Writers in Pakistan & India (part 2): Awais Khan, Amitav Ghosh & Vikram Chandra join presenters Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan on the We'd Like A Word books & authors podcast, with insights into how they write, advice for new authors & books they love. Awais Khan, from Lahore in Pakistan, is the author of two novels - In The Company of Strangers (published by Simon & Schuster India, & soon to be published in the UK by Hera) & No Honour (published by Orenda Books - we had the publisher Karen Sullivan on a previous hilarious and revealing episode of We'd Like A Word). In The Company of Strangers is being made into a feature for Pikchur TV online streaming service. Awais is also the founder of The Writing Institute in Lahore.

Awais talks agents, Annette Crossland, overcoming discouragement, how to schedule your writing, Jackie Collins, how to be socially relevant, the problem of counterfeit books in Pakistan, if you can be a writer while holding down a day job, his experience of The Faber Academy, Liberty Books, the Indian/Pakistan trade embargo, forced marriage & so-called honour killings, and the Edhi Foundation. We also hear about comic novels and Steve's Dad - also an author & a friend of Daphne du Maurier.

Amitav Ghosh is the renowned Indian author of the Sea of Poppies trilogy & more recently, Jungle Nama. His writing advice is to write the book you would love to read yourself, or that would make you laugh or cry. He recommends Barkskins by Annie Proulx.

Vikram Chandra is most famous for writing Sacred Games, which was made into the extremely popular Netflix series of the same name. He advises new authors to follow their obsessions & ignore the received wisdom that you should write what you know. On the contrary, he says you should write what you do not know, what obsesses you. He recommends Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings (the new comic classic, just out) by Stevyn Colgan.

Mar 22, 202222:08
44. Writers in Pakistan & India (part 3): Awais Khan, Amitav Ghosh & Vikram Chandra

44. Writers in Pakistan & India (part 3): Awais Khan, Amitav Ghosh & Vikram Chandra

44. Writers in Pakistan & India (part 3): Awais Khan, Amitav Ghosh & Vikram Chandra join presenters Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan on the We'd Like A Word books & authors podcast, with insights into how they write, advice for new authors & books they love. Awais Khan, from Lahore in Pakistan, is the author of two novels - In The Company of Strangers (published by Simon & Schuster India, & soon to be published in the UK by Hera) & No Honour (published by Orenda Books - we had the publisher Karen Sullivan on a previous hilarious and revealing episode of We'd Like A Word). In The Company of Strangers is being made into a feature for Pikchur TV online streaming service. Awais is also the founder of The Writing Institute in Lahore.

Awais talks agents, Annette Crossland, overcoming discouragement, how to schedule your writing, Jackie Collins, how to be socially relevant, the problem of counterfeit books in Pakistan, if you can be a writer while holding down a day job, his experience of The Faber Academy, Liberty Books, the Indian/Pakistan trade embargo, forced marriage & so-called honour killings, and the Edhi Foundation. We also hear about comic novels and Steve's Dad - also an author & a friend of Daphne du Maurier. 

Amitav Ghosh is the renowned Indian author of the Sea of Poppies trilogy & more recently, Jungle Nama. His writing advice is to write the book you would love to read yourself, or that would make you laugh or cry. He recommends Barkskins by Annie Proulx.

Vikram Chandra is most famous for writing Sacred Games, which was made into the extremely popular Netflix series of the same name. He advises new authors to follow their obsessions & ignore the received wisdom that you should write what you know. On the contrary, he says you should write what you do not know, what obsesses you. He recommends Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings (the new comic classic, just out) by Stevyn Colgan.



Mar 22, 202223:53
43. The mysterious disappearance of Agatha Christie (part 1) with Nina de Gramont, author of The Christie Affair

43. The mysterious disappearance of Agatha Christie (part 1) with Nina de Gramont, author of The Christie Affair

43. The mysterious disappearance of Agatha Christie (part 1): Nina de Gramont, author of The Christie Affair, tells We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters and Stevyn Colgan what might have happened when the famous murder mystery writer disappeared for 11 days in 1926. Nina talks about the original real life disappearance, the various theories and her own version - which works in a very cunning murder mystery (spoiler alert - poison is involved in classic Christie style) and Ireland's notorious mother and baby homes. We also hear about how Nina succeeded in writing The Christie Affair, because she changed her approach to writing, after a failed attempt to write a book based on Emily Dickinson. We discuss why women are better at writing crime fiction than men (let us know if you disagree), the Cottingley Fairies, Agatha Christie's secret surfing past, how to get a movie made of your book, and Stevyn's starring role in the quintuple-award-winning film Scootch! We also refer to some other authors/scholars and their books, including The Line Up by Matthew Thompson, Ireland's Magdalene Laundries and the Nation's Architecture of Containment by Dr James Smith, the Adoption Machine by Paul Jude Redman, Death Comes to Pemberley by PD James and the documentary Sex In A Cold Climate directed by Steve Humphries. You could also check out Nina's other books - The Last September, Gossip of the Starlings and Of Cats And Men. Plus Nina particularly recommends you read Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau. We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings (the new comic classic, just out) by Stevyn Colgan.
Feb 16, 202223:39
42. The mysterious disappearance of Agatha Christie (part 2) with Nina de Gramont, author of The Christie Affair

42. The mysterious disappearance of Agatha Christie (part 2) with Nina de Gramont, author of The Christie Affair

42. The mysterious disappearance of Agatha Christie (part 2): Nina de Gramont, author of The Christie Affair, tells We'd Like A Word hosts Paul Waters and Stevyn Colgan what might have happened when the famous murder mystery writer disappeared for 11 days in 1926. Nina talks about the original real life disappearance, the various theories and her own version - which works in a very cunning murder mystery (spoiler alert - poison is involved in classic Christie style) and Ireland's notorious mother and baby homes. We also hear about how Nina succeeded in writing The Christie Affair, because she changed her approach to writing, after a failed attempt to write a book based on Emily Dickinson. We discuss why women are better at writing crime fiction than men (let us know if you disagree), the Cottingley Fairies, Agatha Christie's secret surfing past, how to get a movie made of your book, and Stevyn's starring role in the quintuple-award-winning film Scootch! We also refer to some other authors/scholars and their books, including The Line Up by Matthew Thompson, Ireland's Magdalene Laundries and the Nation's Architecture of Containment by Dr James Smith, the Adoption Machine by Paul Jude Redman, Death Comes to Pemberley by PD James and the documentary Sex In A Cold Climate directed by Steve Humphries. You could also check out Nina's other books - The Last September, Gossip of the Starlings and Of Cats And Men. Plus Nina particularly recommends you read Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau. We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings (the new comic classic, just out) by Stevyn Colgan.
Feb 16, 202230:22
41. Death In Paradise (part 1) with creator Robert Thorogood, author of The Marlow Murder Club

41. Death In Paradise (part 1) with creator Robert Thorogood, author of The Marlow Murder Club

41. Death In Paradise (part 1) with Robert Thorogood, author of The Marlow Murder Club: In this episode of We'd Like A Word, recorded in front of a live audience at Wycombe Arts Centre in support of Wycombe Food Hub (& the Arts Centre), presenters Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan hear from Robert Thorogood about how he created the long-running very popular BBC and international TV series, Death In Paradise, and about his new cosy crime novel, The Marlow Murder Club. In a refreshing change, Paul and Steve's efforts at pinning Robert down are greatly enhanced by unscripted questions from the audience - some of whom have come to this High Wycombe recording from as far away as Bedford and Sheffield.

If you want to know what goes on behind the scenes in creating and filming Death In Paradise, about its roots in Midsomer Murders, about who has been the best detective so far, and what the locals in Guadeloupe think about it - have a listen. The audience taking part in this podcast really know their stuff - some of them have even been to the real Catherine's Bar on location. We investigate the greatest scandal of Death In Paradise - yes, the change in the theme tune. And some of us have a wee dance to the original version. (Some of us = Paul.) Yes, we also had the bar open during the recording.

Robert also talks about the wisdom (or otherwise) of setting a murder mystery in the town where he lives - and how it opened him to blackmail from the postman. By the way, we all loved The Marlow Murder Club. You should read it.

And we also hear from Mark Page, photographer extraordinaire, who is running the Wycombe Food Hub, a wonderful project that is helping people who don't earn much to feed their families, with dignity - and also saving huge amounts of food from being wasted by supermarkets and dumped in landfill. Its a great initiative, for which there is sadly much need. Everyone who bought tickets for the recording of this episode of We'd Like Word has helped to fund Wycombe Food Hub. Good for you!

Thanks to our fabulous live audience. Thanks also to our great venue - Wycombe Arts Centre. It's a gem, with highly competent staff and a warm welcome. And thank you to the film crew who also recorded the event, led by award-winning film producer Melanie Perry. We'll let you know on social media when it's ready to watch.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings (the new comic classic, just out) by Stevyn Colgan.

Dec 10, 202134:44
40. Death In Paradise (part 2) with creator Robert Thorogood, author of The Marlow Murder Club

40. Death In Paradise (part 2) with creator Robert Thorogood, author of The Marlow Murder Club

40. Death In Paradise (part 2) with Robert Thorogood, author of The Marlow Murder Club: In this episode of We'd Like A Word, recorded in front of a live audience at Wycombe Arts Centre in support of Wycombe Food Hub (& the Arts Centre), presenters Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan hear from Robert Thorogood about how he created the long-running very popular BBC and international TV series, Death In Paradise, and about his new cosy crime novel, The Marlow Murder Club. In a refreshing change, Paul and Steve's efforts at pinning Robert down are greatly enhanced by unscripted questions from the audience - some of whom have come to this High Wycombe recording from as far away as Bedford and Sheffield.

If you want to know what goes on behind the scenes in creating and filming Death In Paradise, about its roots in Midsomer Murders, about who has been the best detective so far, and what the locals in Guadeloupe think about it - have a listen. The audience taking part in this podcast really know their stuff - some of them have even been to the real Catherine's Bar on location. We investigate the greatest scandal of Death In Paradise - yes, the change in the theme tune. And some of us have a wee dance to the original version. (Some of us = Paul.) Yes, we also had the bar open during the recording.

Robert also talks about the wisdom (or otherwise) of setting a murder mystery in the town where he lives - and how it opened him to blackmail from the postman. By the way, we all loved The Marlow Murder Club. You should read it.

And we also hear from Mark Page, photographer extraordinaire, who is running the Wycombe Food Hub, a wonderful project that is helping people who don't earn much to feed their families, with dignity - and also saving huge amounts of food from being wasted by supermarkets and dumped in landfill. Its a great initiative, for which there is sadly much need. Everyone who bought tickets for the recording of this episode of We'd Like Word has helped to fund Wycombe Food Hub. Good for you!

Thanks to our fabulous live audience. Thanks also to our great venue - Wycombe Arts Centre. It's a gem, with highly competent staff and a warm welcome. And thank you to the film crew who also recorded the event, led by award-winning film producer Melanie Perry. We'll let you know on social media when it's ready to watch. 

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings (the new comic classic, just out) by Stevyn Colgan.

Dec 10, 202147:17
39. Weird book promotion (part 1) with Tina Baker, Fiona Sherlock, Lulu Allison & Emma Grae

39. Weird book promotion (part 1) with Tina Baker, Fiona Sherlock, Lulu Allison & Emma Grae

39. Weird book promotion (part 1) with Tina Baker, Fiona Sherlock, Lulu Allison & Emma Grae: In this episode of We'd Like A Word, presenters Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan hear about innovative, odd & risky ways authors promote their books.  Tina Baker is the author of Call Me Mummy and Nasty Little Cuts. She's also a former TV & radio showbiz reporter. She used to clean the aisles of the supermarket that now sells her books. Her promotional ruses encompass street theatre, book spanking, wedding dresses, climbing on cars, burpees & (notwithstanding that previous part) constant sparkling glamour. She also moos, quite a bit.

Fiona Sherlock is the Irish crime fiction author of Preserved & Twelve Motives for Murder. But she's also the creator of a whole range of murder mystery games, one of which, The Wizard's Dagger, is tested by We'd Like A Word listeners, led by Mark Vent. It's a tense episode as, in true Jukebox Jury style, Fiona braces herself for the audience verdict on her game. There's a lot of acting, some appalling singing of Britney Spears songs & pointed accusations. Fiona also explains why Matt Damon, Ben Affleck and Ridley Scott were going to the toilet in her back garden in Bective, in County Meath. (Jodie Comer was more discreet.)  Lulu Allison is the author of Salt Lick, in which the British countryside empties of people, nature re-wilds the land & feral cows provide a chorus. She's also an artist & while bored during Covid lockdown created & shared pictures of a new homemade hat every week, made only of bits a pieces about the house - maps, garden forks, a frying pan & more weird stuff. It went viral. A ukulele band wrote a song about it.

Emma Grae is the Scottish author of Be Guid Tae Yer Mammy, about three generations of a Glasgow family, written in Scots. At first she posted cute pictures of herself & her hamsters & rats online which gained attention. But then her involvement in full-on disputes on Twitter & in the Scottish press took her profile & that of her book to a much higher level. Being trolled has its downsides, but it can also boost book sales. She talks about that & the controversy around writing in Scots.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings (the new comic classic, just out) by Stevyn Colgan.

Nov 03, 202125:05
38. Weird book promotion (part 2) with Tina Baker, Lulu Allison, Fiona Sherlock & Emma Grae

38. Weird book promotion (part 2) with Tina Baker, Lulu Allison, Fiona Sherlock & Emma Grae

38. Weird book promotion (part 2) with Tina Baker, Emma Grae, Fiona Sherlock & Lulu Allison: In this episode of We'd Like A Word, presenters Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan hear about innovative, odd & risky ways authors promote their books.  Tina Baker is the author of Call Me Mummy and Nasty Little Cuts. She's also a former TV & radio showbiz reporter. She used to clean the aisles of the supermarket that now sells her books. Her promotional ruses encompass street theatre, book spanking, wedding dresses, climbing on cars, burpees & (notwithstanding that previous part) constant sparkling glamour. She also moos, quite a bit.

Fiona Sherlock is the Irish crime fiction author of Preserved & Twelve Motives for Murder. But she's also the creator of a whole range of murder mystery games, one of which, The Wizard's Dagger, is tested by We'd Like A Word listeners, led by Mark Vent. It's a tense episode as, in true Jukebox Jury style, Fiona braces herself for the audience verdict on her game. There's a lot of acting, some appalling singing of Britney Spears songs & pointed accusations. Fiona also explains why Matt Damon, Ben Affleck and Ridley Scott were going to the toilet in her back garden in Bective, in County Meath. (Jodie Comer was more discreet.)  Lulu Allison is the author of Salt Lick, in which the British countryside empties of people, nature re-wilds the land & feral cows provide a chorus. She's also an artist & while bored during Covid lockdown created & shared pictures of a new homemade hat every week, made only of bits a pieces about the house - maps, garden forks, a frying pan & more weird stuff. It went viral. A ukulele band wrote a song about it.

Emma Grae is the Scottish author of Be Guid Tae Yer Mammy, about three generations of a Glasgow family, written in Scots. At first she posted cute pictures of herself & her hamsters & rats online which gained attention. But then her involvement in full-on disputes on Twitter & in the Scottish press took her profile & that of her book to a much higher level. Being trolled has its downsides, but it can also boost book sales. She talks about that & the controversy around writing in Scots.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings (the new comic classic, just out) by Stevyn Colgan.

Nov 03, 202127:04
37. Weird book promotion (part 3) with Tina Baker, Emma Grae, Fiona Sherlock & Lulu Allison

37. Weird book promotion (part 3) with Tina Baker, Emma Grae, Fiona Sherlock & Lulu Allison

37. Weird book promotion (part 3) with Tina Baker, Emma Grae, Fiona Sherlock & Lulu Allison: In this episode of We'd Like A Word, presenters Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan hear about innovative, odd & risky ways authors promote their books.

Tina Baker is the author of Call Me Mummy and Nasty Little Cuts. She's also a former TV & radio showbiz reporter. She used to clean the aisles of the supermarket that now sells her books. Her promotional ruses encompass street theatre, book spanking, wedding dresses, climbing on cars, burpees & (notwithstanding that previous part) constant sparkling glamour. She also moos, quite a bit.

Fiona Sherlock is the Irish crime fiction author of Preserved & Twelve Motives for Murder. But she's also the creator of a whole range of murder mystery games, one of which, The Wizard's Dagger, is tested by We'd Like A Word listeners, led by Mark Vent. It's a tense episode as, in true Jukebox Jury style, Fiona braces herself for the audience verdict on her game. There's a lot of acting, some appalling singing of Britney Spears songs & pointed accusations. Fiona also explains why Matt Damon, Ben Affleck and Ridley Scott were going to the toilet in her back garden in Bective, in County Meath. (Jodie Comer was more discreet.)

Lulu Allison is the author of Salt Lick, in which the British countryside empties of people, nature re-wilds the land & feral cows provide a chorus. She's also an artist & while bored during Covid lockdown created & shared pictures of a new homemade hat every week, made only of bits a pieces about the house - maps, garden forks, a frying pan & more weird stuff. It went viral. A ukulele band wrote a song about it.

Emma Grae is the Scottish author of Be Guid Tae Yer Mammy, about three generations of a Glasgow family, written in Scots. At first she posted cute pictures of herself & her hamsters & rats online which gained attention. But then her involvement in full-on disputes on Twitter & in the Scottish press took her profile & that of her book to a much higher level. Being trolled has its downsides, but it can also boost book sales. She talks about that & the controversy around writing in Scots.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings (the new comic classic, just out) by Stevyn Colgan. 

Nov 03, 202132:50
36. Writing Partnerships (part 1): Ambrose Parry, Chris Brookmyre, Dr Marisa Haetzman, Dan Brotzel & Martin Jenkins

36. Writing Partnerships (part 1): Ambrose Parry, Chris Brookmyre, Dr Marisa Haetzman, Dan Brotzel & Martin Jenkins

Writing Partnerships (part 1): Ambrose Parry is the author of the Scottish historical crime thriller, A Corruption of Blood, published by Canongate. Ambrose Parry is also the pseudonym of the (married) writing partnership of consultant anaesthetist Dr Marisa Haetzman and her husband, the internationally bestselling and multi-award winning author Chris Brookmyre. Marisa and Chris tell authors Paul Waters and Stevyn Colgan, the presenters of the We'd Like A Word books and authors podcast, how they create and maintain this series set in Victorian Edinburgh, (now on book 3); about the challenges and benefits of writing collaboration; and whether being married helps their writing (and whether writing together helps their marriage).

Also on this episode of We'd Like A Word, we hear from Dan Brotzel and Martin Jenkins, two of the three authors (along with Alex Woolf) of the new comic novel, Work in Progress (previously known as Kitten on a Fatberg), published by Unbound. Dan and Martin are in the same writers' group and got together to write this book. In their new book, Work In Progress, members of a fictional writers' group get together to write a collaborative novel. So we hear how the fictional authors and the real writers got together and how they succeed and fail in their efforts to keep readers laughing and turning the pages. "It's a bit meta."

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings (the new comic classic, just out) by Stevyn Colgan.

Sep 01, 202120:44
35. Writing Partnerships (part 2): Ambrose Parry, Chris Brookmyre, Dr Marisa Haetzman, Dan Brotzel & Martin Jenkins

35. Writing Partnerships (part 2): Ambrose Parry, Chris Brookmyre, Dr Marisa Haetzman, Dan Brotzel & Martin Jenkins

Writing Partnerships (part 2): Ambrose Parry is the author of the Scottish historical crime thriller, A Corruption of Blood, published by Canongate. Ambrose Parry is also the pseudonym of the (married) writing partnership of consultant anaesthetist Dr Marisa Haetzman and her husband, the internationally bestselling and multi-award winning author Chris Brookmyre. Marisa and Chris tell authors Paul Waters and Stevyn Colgan, the presenters of the We'd Like A Word books and authors podcast, how they create and maintain this series set in Victorian Edinburgh, (now on book 3); about the challenges and benefits of writing collaboration; and whether being married helps their writing (and whether writing together helps their marriage).

Also on this episode of We'd Like A Word, we hear from Dan Brotzel and Martin Jenkins, two of the three authors (along with Alex Woolf) of the new comic novel, Work in Progress (previously known as Kitten on a Fatberg), published by Unbound. Dan and Martin are in the same writers' group and got together to write this book. In their new book, Work In Progress, members of a fictional writers' group get together to write a collaborative novel. So we hear how the fictional authors and the real writers got together and how they succeed and fail in their efforts to keep readers laughing and turning the pages. "It's a bit meta."

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings (the new comic classic, just out) by Stevyn Colgan.

Sep 01, 202120:36
34. Writing Partnerships (part 3): Dan Brotzel, Martin Jenkins, Ambrose Parry, Chris Brookmyre & Dr Marisa Haetzman

34. Writing Partnerships (part 3): Dan Brotzel, Martin Jenkins, Ambrose Parry, Chris Brookmyre & Dr Marisa Haetzman

Writing Partnerships (part 3): On this episode of the books and authors podcast, We'd Like A Word, presenters Paul Waters and Stevyn Colgan hear from Dan Brotzel and Martin Jenkins, two of the three authors (along with Alex Woolf) of the new comic novel, Work in Progress (previously known as Kitten on a Fatberg), published by Unbound. Dan and Martin are in the same writers' group and got together to write this book. In their new book, Work In Progress, members of a fictional writers' group get together to write a collaborative novel. So we hear how the fictional authors and the real writers got together and how they succeed and fail in their efforts to keep readers laughing and turning the pages. "It's a bit meta."

Also on this episode of We'd Like A Word - Ambrose Parry is the author of the Scottish historical crime thriller, A Corruption of Blood, published by Canongate. Ambrose Parry is also the pseudonym of the (married) writing partnership of consultant anaesthetist Dr Marisa Haetzman and her husband, the internationally bestselling and multi-award winning author Chris Brookmyre. Marisa and Chris tell authors Paul Waters and Stevyn Colgan, the presenters of the We'd Like A Word books and authors podcast, how they create and maintain this series set in Victorian Edinburgh, (now on book 3); about the challenges and benefits of writing collaboration; and whether being married helps their writing (and whether writing together helps their marriage).

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or Cockerings (the new comic classic, just out) by Stevyn Colgan.

Sep 01, 202124:08
33. Men Writing Women (part 1): RJ McBrien & Shelley Weiner

33. Men Writing Women (part 1): RJ McBrien & Shelley Weiner

Men Writing Women (part 1): RJ McBrien, author of Reckless + author & Faber Writing Academy tutor Shelley Weiner, tell We'd Like A Word presenters Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan how male authors can write convincing female characters - and vice versa. 

RJ McBrien is a very successful TV screenplay writer (Spoowks, The Bill, Soldier Soldier, Atlantis, Merlin, Red Caps, etc), who has also had some crushing and hilarious exploits in movie writing too. Reckless, published by Welbeck Publishing, is this author's first novel. It gets into the mind of an apparently happily married woman who is missing just one thing - good sex. In order to "scratch that itch" (RJ's words, not ours), she gets into some dark, dangerous, poignant and very funny scrapes. RJ is Richard. So - not just a man writing a woman, but writing about the most intimate aspects of her life. Does he pull it off? Is it appropriation? Who helped?

Shelley Weiner is a major reason Reckless was published. She was the tutor of RJ's Faber Writing Academy course - and guided him to the feminine side. She's also an author. Her titles include: Writing Short Stories, Writing Your First Novel, The Audacious Mendacity of Lily Green, Arnost, The Joker, The Last Honeymoon & A Sister's Tale. She's currently writing Summer Strand, a novel inspired by her Lithuanian parents who met and married in the Kaunas ghetto, were sent to separate Nazi concentration camps, survived the Holocaust, found each other again in a post-war camp for displaced people in Italy, & managed to reach South Africa - just as apartheid was imposed.

We also hear personal stories of encounters with Jodie Foster, Arthur Miller, Ewan McGregor, Heath Ledger & Ted Demme. We discuss "nerks" (is that how you spell nerk?) - non-swearing swear words - like the frequency of toerags in The Bill. We discover the importance of the type of "and" or "&" and where it's placed in movie credits. We hear what happens when a film studio asks you rewrite a film script, not relaising you were the original author in the first place. We hear which are easier to write - books or screenplays? And about the importance of authors' support groups, beat readers, bad and good sex writing, Adrian McKinty, Brian McGilloway, body dismorphia amongst middle-aged women, Raven Leilani, Jilly Cooper, Jackie Collins, top writing tips from Shelley, the contract with the reader, staying inside your story, editor Niamh Mulvey, integrity v cynicism, and lots of useful insight. There's a bit of cursing too - even worse words than toerag. Sorry.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or The Diabolical Club by Stevyn Colgan.

Jul 27, 202121:31
32. Men Writing Women (part 2): RJ McBrien & Shelley Weiner

32. Men Writing Women (part 2): RJ McBrien & Shelley Weiner

Men Writing Women (part 2): RJ McBrien, author of Reckless + author & Faber Writing Academy tutor Shelley Weiner, tell We'd Like A Word presenters Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan how male authors can write convincing female characters - and vice versa.

RJ McBrien is a very successful TV screenplay writer (Spooks, The Bill, Soldier Soldier, Atlantis, Merlin, Red Caps, etc), who has also had some crushing and hilarious exploits in movie writing too. Reckless, published by Welbeck Publishing, is this author's first novel. It gets into the mind of an apparently happily married woman who is missing just one thing - good sex. In order to "scratch that itch" (RJ's words, not ours), she gets into some dark, dangerous, poignant and very funny scrapes. RJ is Richard. So - not just a man writing a woman, but writing about the most intimate aspects of her life. Does he pull it off? Is it appropriation? Who helped?

Shelley Weiner is a major reason Reckless was published. She was the tutor of RJ's Faber Writing Academy course - and guided him to the feminine side. She's also an author. Her titles include: Writing Short Stories, Writing Your First Novel, The Audacious Mendacity of Lily Green, Arnost, The Joker, The Last Honeymoon & A Sister's Tale. She's currently writing Summer Strand, a novel inspired by her Lithuanian parents who met and married in the Kaunas ghetto, were sent to separate Nazi concentration camps, survived the Holocaust, found each other again in a post-war camp for displaced people in Italy, & managed to reach South Africa - just as apartheid was imposed.

We also hear personal stories of encounters with Jodie Foster, Arthur Miller, Ewan McGregor, Heath Ledger & Ted Demme. We discuss "nerks" (is that how you spell nerk?) - non-swearing swear words - like the frequency of toerags in The Bill. We discover the importance of the type of "and" or "&" and where it's placed in movie credits. We hear what happens when a film studio asks you rewrite a film script, not relaising you were the original author in the first place. We hear which are easier to write - books or screenplays? And about the importance of authors' support groups, beat readers, bad and good sex writing, Adrian McKinty, Brian McGilloway, body dismorphia amongst middle-aged women, Raven Leilani, Jilly Cooper, Jackie Collins, top writing tips from Shelley, the contract with the reader, staying inside your story, editor Niamh Mulvey, integrity v cynicism, and lots of useful insight. There's a bit of cursing too - even worse words than toerag. Sorry.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or The Diabolical Club by Stevyn Colgan.

Jul 27, 202121:28
31. Men Writing Women (part 3): RJ McBrien & Shelley Weiner

31. Men Writing Women (part 3): RJ McBrien & Shelley Weiner

Men Writing Women (part 3): RJ McBrien, author of Reckless + author & Faber Writing Academy tutor Shelley Weiner, tell We'd Like A Word presenters Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan how male authors can write convincing female characters - and vice versa.

RJ McBrien is a very successful TV screenplay writer (Spooks, The Bill, Soldier Soldier, Atlantis, Merlin, Red Caps, etc), who has also had some crushing and hilarious exploits in movie writing too. Reckless, published by Welbeck Publishing, is this author's first novel. It gets into the mind of an apparently happily married woman who is missing just one thing - good sex. In order to "scratch that itch" (RJ's words, not ours), she gets into some dark, dangerous, poignant and very funny scrapes. RJ is Richard. So - not just a man writing a woman, but writing about the most intimate aspects of her life. Does he pull it off? Is it appropriation? Who helped?

Shelley Weiner is a major reason Reckless was published. She was the tutor of RJ's Faber Writing Academy course - and guided him to the feminine side. She's also an author. Her titles include: Writing Short Stories, Writing Your First Novel, The Audacious Mendacity of Lily Green, Arnost, The Joker, The Last Honeymoon & A Sister's Tale. She's currently writing Summer Strand, a novel inspired by her Lithuanian parents who met and married in the Kaunas ghetto, were sent to separate Nazi concentration camps, survived the Holocaust, found each other again in a post-war camp for displaced people in Italy, & managed to reach South Africa - just as apartheid was imposed.

We also hear personal stories of encounters with Jodie Foster, Arthur Miller, Ewan McGregor, Heath Ledger & Ted Demme. We discuss "nerks" (is that how you spell nerk?) - non-swearing swear words - like the frequency of toerags in The Bill. We discover the importance of the type of "and" or "&" and where it's placed in movie credits. We hear what happens when a film studio asks you rewrite a film script, not relaising you were the original author in the first place. We hear which are easier to write - books or screenplays? And about the importance of authors' support groups, beat readers, bad and good sex writing, Adrian McKinty, Brian McGilloway, body dismorphia amongst middle-aged women, Raven Leilani, Jilly Cooper, Jackie Collins, top writing tips from Shelley, the contract with the reader, staying inside your story, editor Niamh Mulvey, integrity v cynicism, and lots of useful insight. There's a bit of cursing too - even worse words than toerag. Sorry.

We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or The Diabolical Club by Stevyn Colgan.

Jul 27, 202125:06
30. Fictionalising recent history (part 1): Alan Parks & Eamon Somers

30. Fictionalising recent history (part 1): Alan Parks & Eamon Somers

Fictionalising recent history (part 1): Scottish crime fiction author Alan Parks & Irish writer Eamon Somers tell We'd Like A Word presenters Paul Waters and Stevyn Colgan about how they set their stories in the recent past and get it right. Alan Parks is the author of The April Dead, published by Canongate, set in 1970s Glasgow, featuring detective Harry McCoy. According to Peter May (who we've also had on We'd Like A Word), Alan's "1970s Glasgow is hewn from flesh and drawn in blood." The Times said "Detective Harry McCoy is so noir that he makes most other Scottish cops seem light grey." Alan's books come out in the month mentioned in the title - The April Dead follows Bloody January, February's Son & Bobby March Will Live Forever. If your book is hundreds of years ago, fewer people will be able to spot your mistakes or have strong opinions on how it really was. But if, like Alan, your book is set in the 1970s, or, like Eamon, your book is set in the 1980s, brace yourself for close scrutiny. It also means there'll be as many "true" versions of your time period as there are readers who remember it. We hear how Alan and Eamon scatter subtle signals of the time - using musical references, the weather, smoking - and in Alan's case, a sinister thread on torture by members of the British military in Kenya, Malaya and Northern Ireland during the years of decolonisation. Before he was an author, Alan worked in the music industry. So we also ask about his time with Enya, New Order and All Saints. Alan's website is https://www.alanparks.co.uk Eamon Somers is the author of Dolly Considine's Hotel, published by Unbound, which switches back and forth between the 1980s of the Irish abortion referendum and previous decades. It's inspired by his own time working in a Dublin shebeen near the Gate Theatre, where the likes of film and theatre director Peter Bogdanovich and politicians would linger for illicit drinking. Eamon was a campaigner in Ireland's fledgling gay liberation movement, serving three terms as spokesperson for Ireland’s National Gay Federation. When he moved to London he worked for a while Haringey Council’s Lesbian and Gay Unit (including the anti-Clause 28 campaign). But he says he certainly did not want to write yet another coming out misery memoir - he was determined that the gay leading character must NOT die. His website is https://www.eamonsomers.com We also talk about why authors put racist language only in the mouths of baddies - painting too rosy a picture? And Abba, Orson Welles, Bay City Rollers, how the Scottish Liberation Front might have blocked Stiff Little Fingers from stardom (SLF), TV's Country Matters, Fat City directed by John Huston, The Red Balloon, The Graduate, how the '70s were really orange, Mau Mau, abortion, Mother Ireland & writing the past through the lens of the present. We'd Like A Word is a podcast & radio show from authors Paul Waters & Stevyn Colgan. We talk with writers, readers, editors, agents, celebrities, talkers, poets, publishers, booksellers, audiobook creators about books - fiction & non-fiction. We go out on various radio & podcast platforms. Our website is http://www.wedlikeaword.com for information on Paul & Steve & our guests. We're also on Twitter @wedlikeaword & Facebook @wedlikeaword & our email is wedlikeaword@gmail.com Yes, we are embarrassed by the missing apostrophes. We like to hear from you - questions, thoughts, ideas, guest or book suggestions. Perhaps you'd like to come on We'd Like A Word to chat, review or read out passages from books. And if you're still stuck for something to read, may we recommend Blackwatertown by Paul Waters or The Diabolical Club by Stevyn Colgan.
Jul 06, 202118:44