Some of the larger topics we cover in this second part include:

Creating from passion rather than market pressure

A big throughline is choosing creative projects based on personal passion and integrity, not trends, algorithms, or sales expectations. We talk about following curiosity across genres, letting reading habits shape writing, and resisting the pressure to “write to market” in favour of work that feels meaningful and sustaining.

Midlife creativity: confidence, permission, and letting go

We also spend a significant time on how midlife brings less need for validation, more self-trust, and greater freedom to create without shame or apology. Amra shares about letting go of frantic energy, external approval, and the fear of judgment, and embracing creative work as self-expression rather than performance.

The long game of creative practice (process over outcome)

We repeatedly return to the idea that meaningful creative work requires time, repetition, patience, and release. We also highlight burnout, false starts, undercooked drafts, learning by doing, stepping away from projects, and trusting that clarity often comes through continuation rather than force.

Writing as learning, healing, and identity evolution

Another important concept we both speak to is writing as a vehicle for growth and transformation—from working through trauma, to shifting genres as life stages change, to reframing jealousy as a signal of unlived creativity. Writing is not just valued as output, but as a way of understanding oneself and one’s evolving voice.

Don't forget to follow the links below to connect with Amra and let her know what insights landed for you...

Discover more about Amra here:

Website - https://www.amrapajalic.com/

Instagram - ​https://www.instagram.com/amrapajalicauthor/

Substack - https://substack.com/@amrapajalic?

BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/authors/amra-pajalic

Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/author/amrapajalic

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I was thrilled to start the year with a fascinating conversation with author Amra Pajalic! In fact, we had so much to chat about that we decided to split it over 2 eps!!

In this first episode, we chatted about:

Writing fiction grounded in real historical trauma

We discuss the responsibility and ethical weight of fictionalising real events, particularly the Bosnian War and the Srebrenica genocide, and how to honour survivor experiences while still telling a compelling story.

Transforming academic research into a novel

A major thread is how the book emerged from a PhD project, the tension between historical research and storytelling, and the process of condensing vast research into an accessible narrative.

Blending crime fiction with historical reality

We explore why the crime genre was chosen as a framework, how a murder mystery can exist within a war setting, and how genre expectations allow readers to engage with darker material.

Identity, displacement, and inherited trauma

The conversation moves into personal and intergenerational experiences of migration, identity, ethnic division, and how political power fractures communities, both historically and in the present day.

So good!! We hope you got a lot out of our convo today...and hope you check back in for the second part of our convo tomorrow!

Discover more about Amra here:

Website - https://www.amrapajalic.com/

Instagram - ​https://www.instagram.com/amrapajalicauthor/

Substack - https://substack.com/@amrapajalic?

BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/authors/amra-pajalic

Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/author/amrapajalic

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This episode gave us an opportunity (thanks to the fabulous suggestion from Angie) to dive into how each of their books was inspired by their culture and their family's stories. Though their novels are pretty different on the surface in terms of genre, they share some common motivations. Angie and Alli generously opened up about the challenge of balancing truth and fiction, especially when dealing with tough topics like racism and historical events. They discuss how they approached research, the editorial process, language choices, and how they try to keep their stories authentic without making them too heavy or sanitised. They even reveal some personal stuff about how they cope with the intense parts of writing. It was a brilliant reminder about why fiction is such a powerful way to connect and learn.

I hope you love this episode as much as I did!

Find out more about Angie and Alli (and pick up their books!!) here:

Angie Faye Martin, author of MELALEUCA (2025)

Website: https://angiefaye.net/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/angie_faye_martin

Alli Parker, author of AT THE FOOT OF THE CHERRY TREE (2023) and UNTIL THE RED LEAVES FALL (2025)

Website: https://www.alliparker.com/books/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/alliparkerwriter

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This conversation with Kate, chatting about her sophomore novel (or is it...) and what she's learnt through the process of publishing again with her supportive team at HQ Australia. We unpacked some of the high-level (no spoilers!) plot drivers, how she approached her writing of this story, the patterns she's discovering and, what I really wanted her to share with listeners, the way she's approached 'platform building'...a message for both writers AND readers. We'll definitely be having Kate on the pod again soon!!

Get your hands on her new thriller, ON THE EDGE at the end of the month!!

Connect with Kate here:

https://www.katehoran.com/

https://www.instagram.com/kate_horan_author

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As an author of more than 30 books, Allison's used mutliple pseudonyms and writes for every age and stage, from junior through adult fiction. She shared some absolute gold in terms of staying the writerly path, what to prioritise as a working author, how she manages her plotter process and so much more! If I could bold-type audio, I would in several sections of our convo as we are in staunch agreement about so many aspects of the creative and practical parts of the publishing journey. Please, if you're an author at any stage, this is the episode to listen to: for inspiration or motivation!!

Grab your copy of Slashed Beauties (in Australia, the US, UK and India) now!

Find out more about and connect with Allison here:

https://www.allisonrushby.com/

https://www.instagram.com/allisonrushbyauthor/

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A prolific writer who was raised in her family's bookshop, Alina has had a connection to story for a long time and it shows! In our conversation, she shares her path from writing for herself and for escape to writing for an audience. As a self-confessed plotter, she talked about the balance of planning with creative discovery, how she immerses herself in story to stay connected to her characters and the worlds she builds in her fantasy series as well as the other genres that she loves.

If you've not yet picked up a copy of the first book in her compelling fantasy duology, The Order of Masks, get to it! And then grab the second book, The Weight of Crowns, that starts off with a bang and doesn't slow down.

Find out more about Alina here:

https://www.alinabellchambers.com/

https://www.instagram.com/alinabellwrites/

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Having written in different genres, Dmetri shares about how he leaves the genre designation to the publishers and the importance of bringing truth to every project, fiction or non. I was so impressed with the way he managed to weave the atmosphere of several different genres into a compelling narrative that reflected what he personally enjoys reading and watching. I appreciated hearing about how he worked with his characters in this novel and the ways it morphed and deepened as part of the editorial process. We also spoke about ways to bring the concept of 'own voices' to stories where the character/s are not a like-for-like expression of the writer and more.

A bit more about The Woman in the Well:

This is a brilliant work of gothic literary fiction set against the stark backdrop of the Central Australian desert and has been described by one editor as ‘an astonishing mix of literary horror and folklore.’ Themes among others include: identity, diversity, cross culture, sexual orientation, Australian immigrants, Indigenous Australians.

IFWG Publishing says:

“This is a special work. It is among the select few of our novels that beautifully bridges between literary and speculative fiction. Kakmi is an insightful artist and his eyes catch images and concepts and relates them to his life’s experiences. This work draws from his childhood, finding meaning in life, the place where he can feel comfortable, as does the protagonist of The Woman in the Well. Most notably – and certainly what initially drew us to the book in the first place – is the superimposition of his multicultural background (a ‘stranger in a strange land’) with many of the characters in his work. It’s about fitting, in every sense of the word. This is a novel that we are proud of publishing and we believe it will be critically and commercially successful. I certainly hope that you, the reader, will join in on the celebration of Kakmi’s masterpiece by reading it.”

Find the book and follow Dmetri here:

https://ifwgpublishing.com/2025/04/15/new-release-the-woman-in-the-well-by-dmetri-kakmi/

https://www.instagram.com/dmetrikakmi/

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Let me know... would you love a panel interview with Angie and a couple of other authors who write with dual timelines and highlight cultural dynamics that aren't explored often enough? Personally, I find it so amazing to see how these writers manage their research to ensure they weave underrepresented facts into an authentic and moving narrative!

In the meantime, get your hands on this bestseller and find out more about Angie here:

https://angiefaye.net/

https://www.instagram.com/angie_faye_martin/

'A page-turner with purpose. Refreshing, surprising, and propulsive. Angie Faye Martin is a name to watch.' Tracey Lien, author of All That's Left Unsaid

'Melaleuca is rich with authenticity and heart. Angie Faye Martin skillfully paints a picture of outback Queensland so that the scents, sounds and heat become a physical experience for the reader.' Laura McCluskey, author of The Wolf Tree

'Atmospheric and blistering. Melaleuca will leave you wanting more. What a remarkable debut.' Fleur McDonald, author of The Prospect

'A fresh, authentic perspective to the much-loved genre of the Australian outback thriller. Compelling, thought-provoking and twisty, Melaleuca is both a gripping, tightly plotted mystery and an unflinching exploration of the dark underbelly of institutionalised racism and corruption in Australia.' Kate Horan, author of The Inheritance

'This intense, heart-wrenching and beautifully written novel introduces a bold, and important voice in Australian crime fiction. Set in a small, outback Queensland town, it features the resilient, courageous, and marvelously flawed Aboriginal detective, Renee Taylor. An atmospheric, compulsive read that I defy you to put down.' Karen Brooks, author of The Good Wife of Bath

'Powerful First Nations crime noir that interrogates law enforcement and how it intersects with Indigenous victims. Melaleuca is a compelling exploration of a police officer caught between two worlds, small-town complicity and justice long overdue.' Dinuka McKenzie, author of The Torrent

'Angie Faye Martin brings an important new voice to Australia's rich rural crime tradition. With a gutsy First Nations heroine, an atmospheric setting and a shocking crime that exposes a small town's prejudices, this is a book that deserves a large and enthusiastic audience.' Cassie Hamer, author of The Stranger at the Table

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Haven't read The Last Love Note or Pictures of You yet? Get onto it! And find out more about Emma Grey here:

https://www.emmagrey.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/emmagreyauthor

https://www.facebook.com/emmagreyauthor

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Sara is shifting back from book promotion mode (for her latest twisty thriller, When She Was Gone) to writing as she's focussed on finishing her 10th novel. We chat about the challenge (and the solutions) of writing in multiple POV, the passion she has for writing more stories centring mothers as well as getting clear about where we stand (and what we expect from) AI in our creative endeavours. Such a comprehensive conversation!

Find out more and follow Sara:

Wensite - www.sarafoster.com.au

Substack for readers - Story Matters

Substack for writers - The Resilient Author

Facebook - (/sarafosterauthor)

Instagram - (@sarafosterauthor)

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In this episode, Jane tells us about her experience writing with a pseudonym, we share our love for (and exasperation at the derision for) commercial women's fiction and the ways she's changed (or not!) her approach to writing novels, twenty years on... and so much more.

Find out more about Jane here (as well as catch her latest exciting news!):

https://www.instagram.com/janecostellobooks/

https://janecostello.com/

Don't forget to get your hands on her latest novel, It's Getting Hot in Here!

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Andrew Matthews’ books have sold over 8 million copies in 48 languages and today we're taling about his latest, BOUNCING BACK.

Andrew’s first book, BEING HAPPY! became a global bestseller. His other titles, including FOLLOW YOUR HEART, BEING A HAPPY TEEN and HAPPINESS IN HARD TIMES, are bestsellers in 70 countries. His gentle, common-sense philosophy has resonated with readers worldwide.

Find out more about Andrew here:

Website - https://andrewmatthews.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andrewmatthews.author/

Videos by Andrew:

How to Survive Tough Times

Acceptance is Power: Michael’s Story  

Planning Ahead 

Happiness – a daily decision 

Focus on What You Want  

Do I Need to Love Myself? 

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During this week's writerly convo, I felt as if we just got started! Debut author Nanda Reddy has written a totally compelling, timely and heartwrenching-but-ultimately-hopeful story, A Girl Within a Girl Within a Girl. An instant USA Today bestseller and Apple Books Best Book of March, this is a novel that I can't recommend highly enough (and clearly I'm not alone)!!

She shared so much about her process... how she intentionally injects emotion into each scene, her appreciation of beautitful writing (and how it trumps spoilers), the way she used alpha and beta readers to help polish her manuscript before submission, the story of how she landed her agent and so much more!

Find out more about Nanda here:

https://www.nandareddy.com/

https://www.instagram.com/nandareddyauthor

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"As soon as I started to take myself seriously and my job (as a writer) seriously, other people started doing the same!" - DG Rampton

That brilliant quote came early on in the conversation and is, I think, something that all writers should note, but we also dove into: how she creates her own writing deadlines, the things shes learnt about editing, the benefits of taking ownership of different aspects of the publishing process and how she keeps herself connected to the stories she wants to write.

You can follow DG Rampton on:

Website - https://www.dgrampton.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DGRampton

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fortheloveofjaneausten

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We are starting this season chatting with the author of a debut novel that's getting a lot of buzz in Australia, Kate Horan...

Kate shares how she went from intriguing idea to pantsing her first draft, the (slightly) unexpected path her novel took from query to acquisition, her preferences around plotting during the editorial process and more. I absolutely loved this book AND our convo!!

Check out this fantastic book at your local retailer and find out more about Kate here:

www.katehoran.com

https://www.instagram.com/stories/kate_horan_author/

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Looking for a festive last-minute gift? Buy Lisa's book now:

Australia

USA

UK

Connect with Lisa on her socials!

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lisadarcyauthor.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisadarcyauthor/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisadarcyauthor4

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisa.darcy.author/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@lisadarcyauthor?hl=en

(X)Twitter:  https://twitter.com/lisadarcyauthor

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Listen in as Anita chats about how she's surrounded herself with her passions, what she does on a daily basis to get so much done related to each of those passions, how she finds balance when writing (sometimes) heavy storylines, finding the right fit publisher (and recognising that not every project is best fit for every publisher), how important her relationship with her agent has been over many years and more insight into her personal writerly process.

Follow her in these places:

https://www.anitaheiss.com

https://anitaheiss.substack.com/

https://www.instagram.com/dranitaheiss

Photo credit: Morgan Roberts

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Emma and Kat get into why bringing serious topics into pop culture is so vital, how the messaging is an important aspect of changing culture and what we might do if we recognise ourselves or our loved ones in the dynamic that is shared so truthfully in Emma's latest novel, Pictures of You!!

A review from IG (@karin.heartwell) of the book:

Pictures of You is the latest book by Canberra author @emmagreyauthor and it is a must-read.

Emma has tackled and mastered the topic of coercive control and emotional abuse in relationships while also giving readers hope that healthy relationships are possible, not just toxic ones.

It is a difficult read for me as it is a bit too close to home, having escaped a toxic relationship full of domestic violence. I have yet to experience a healthy relationship and while that seems way out of reach at times, Emma's writing gives me (and others, too) hope.

We must talk about abuse, every day, especially to boys growing up right now.

Things are changing but only so slowly.

More than 80 women have been killed in Australia this year alone due to domestic violence.

Men are still in positions of power where they get to abuse, hate and kill us and apparently, no one ever saw it coming because he has always been 'such a good bloke’.

Enough with this truth avoidance!

We must bring on change, in big and small ways. One way is to read Emma's book and talk about it with the boys and men in your life.

Books have always had the power to change the world for the better, and Pictures of You is no different.

Thank you, Emma, for this book.

Looking for assistance? The following resources may help...

USA Resources

National Hotline and resources 

Domestic Violence Support | National Domestic Violence Hotline (thehotline.org)

Homepage | National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)

Start By Believing – Ending the Cycle of Silence in Sexual Assault

AUS Resources 

National Hotline and Resources

Home | 1800RESPECT

Public Awareness free training AUS

Public awareness workshops (dvalert.org.au)

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This week, we chat about her process, the difference between author-directed vs character-directed writing/plotting, as well as the joy of embracing the editorial process - such fabulous insights!!

Check out Tricia's extensive backlist and social media here:

https://www.triciastringer.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/triciastringerauthor/

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Get your hands on a copy of her beautiful novel, The Girl With the Violin, and find out more about Shelley here:

https://shelleydavidow.com/

https://www.instagram.com/shelleydavidow/

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Check out more of what Andrea is up to here:

Author website: https://andreabartonauthor.com/

Editing website: https://brightsidestorystudio.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andreabartonauthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreabartonauthor/

X: https://twitter.com/AndreaBartonAu

#murder #ballroomdance

#familysecrets

#journalistinvestigation #betrayal

#loyalty #siblingrivalry #fictionbooks

#debutauthor #Intrigue #Secrets

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We chatted about Jane's process of writing a novel where she intentionally added more of herself to the fictional storyline, the beauty of making friends with that internal critic, what women deal with 'at a certain age', how meditation has been a game changer for her and so much more. Love, love, loved this chat!

Discover more about Jane Tara here:

https://www.janetara.com/

https://instagram.com/authorjanetara

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Listen in as we chat about the differing paths to publication, how to build your writerly resilience, the way to embrace manifesting in your writing career (even if you hate the concept of 'manifesting') and why it's more important than ever to learn about (and share) the incredible stories of women in history.

Don't forget to check out the work both Lorissa and Tracy are doing by clicking the links to their websites and social pages:

https://www.lorissarinehart.com/

https://tracydawson.net/

https://instagram.com/lorissa_rinehart

https://instagram.com/dawsontracy

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In this episode, we chat with the ever-insightful Sara Foster, author of multiple books, including the upcoming thriller WHEN SHE WAS GONE. In our conversation, Sara shares what she's observed about the limits of verbal communication, how it affects our understanding of each other and the ways she has begun to explore the other kinds of communication between characters in her stories to show rather than tell. Really thought-provoking and undoubtedly only the start of a compelling and ongoing conversation!

Check out Sara's website here: https://www.sarafoster.com.au/

And keep your eye out for pre-orders to open on WHEN SHE WAS GONE, available everywhere April 2025!

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From her Australian book launch in January to a spectacular US launch in November, Emma shares her takeaways from all the excitement (that's still growing!) and challenge of travelling to promote a deeply personal story. On a personal note from my end, it has been beautiful to watch so many readers connect with her writerly voice and heart. We talk about the highlights of her US tour, and those things she might try to tweak next time.

Haven't got your hands on a copy of The Last Love Note yet?!! Check out all things Emma here:

https://www.emmagrey.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/emmagreyauthor

And if you've loved any (or ALL) of the Writers Talking episodes this year, PLEASE share our pod with your friends and followers!

https://www.instagram.com/writers_talking_podcast

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To get your hands on a copy of ALL I SEE IS VIOLENCE and to learn more about Angie, her work and her new podcast, check out her website here:

https://www.angieelitanewell.com/

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Steph’s debut novel, The Love Contract, won the Banjo Prize for fiction. and we discussed everything from how she managed the time to write while on maternity leave to the similarities between her 'day job' and her practice as a writer. We were in total agreement about what makes a swoon-worthy leading man and how looking more closely at societal expectations (and making the needed shifts) can help men AND women navigate family life and work life.

To get your hands on a copy of Steph's fabulous book and find out more about her:

https://www.stephvizard.com/

https://www.instagram.com/stephevizard/

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Alli Parker is not only an incredibly experienced screen editor and coordinator, but she's now written an incredibly powerful novelisation of her own family's experience - a historical fiction story about Australia's first war bride from Japan. Alli generously shares her experience in choosing to fictionalise versus strict biography, how to manage editorial notes, moving past your own creative hurdles and more. We'll definitely be getting Alli back to share more behind-the-scenes insights as it felt like we just got started!

Grab a copy of her gorgeous book and find out more about here:

http://www.alliparker.com/

https://www.harpercollins.com.au/9781460763520/at-the-foot-of-the-cherry-tree/

https://www.instagram.com/alliparkerwriter/

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Find out more about Ivy and her books here:

https://writengeow.com/

https://www.instagram.com/authorivyngeow

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We dove into the beauty of modern research options, the democratisation of so many aspects of writing as an industry, ways we should be wary of AI (and the ways we shouldn't fret too much over), the HUGE win writers in the US are celebrating and SO. MUCH, MORE. Safe to say, we'll be fitting in another chat again soon.

If you haven't yet gotten your hands on their books, please do (highly recommend as required reading!):

Tracy Dawson

https://tracydawson.net/

https://www.instagram.com/dawsontracy

https://www.twitter.com/dawsontracy

If you need more encouragement to check out Let Me Be Frank, look at these endorsements!

"An entertaining, astonishing collection celebrating the diverse trailblazers who disguised themselves as men...Let Me Be Frank is a witty, sometimes infuriating, wholly inspiring look at the lengths that women had to go to." - Buzzfeed

“A smart, funny journey through history that introduces us to the rule breakers who made history worth traveling through. So well-written.”—Patton Oswalt

“Tracy has such a gift for storytelling and making history leap off the page. Her book has a wit that suggests it was written by a man since everyone knows women aren't this funny.”—Kay Cannon

Lorissa Rinehart

https://lorissarinehart.com/

https://www.instagram.com/lorissa_rinehart

Lorissa's book, First to the Front, is out NOW and getting huge buzz...

"Jam-packed with colorful details and incisive character sketches, this is a vivid reappraisal of a pioneering journalist." ―Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"An astonishing story...exquisite. After reading this enthralling book, now, when someone asks, 'What three people from history would you have over for dinner?' My first choice is easy: At the head of the table is the incomparable Dickey Chapelle. Next to her, the other two guests will be fighting for table scraps." ―Buddy Levy, author of Empire of Ice and Stone: The Disastrous and Heroic Voyage of the Karluk

"An extraordinary story, told with cinematic flair. Chapelle's groundbreaking career should be studied in every journalism school in the country. Rinehart's vivid prose makes us feel like we're right there with her through all her trials and triumphs." ―J. Martin Daughtry, author of Listening to War: Sound, Music, Trauma, and Survival in Wartime Iraq

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Often online, in social and mainstream media we can see all of the exciting aspects of an author's life, but what does it *actually* look and feel like behind the scenes? Does the experience match up to our expectations? I loved how open and honest all three of these writers have been about the peaks and troughs (and enormous levels of 'efforting') that are going on between these snapshot moments.

Check out more details about what everyone has been up to on their websites and socials"

Nina Campbell

https://ninadcampbell.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/NinaDCampbellwrites

https://www.instagram.com/nina.d.campbell.author/

Emma Grey

https://www.emmagrey.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/emmagreyauthor

https://www.instagram.com/emmagreyauthor/

Rachael Morgan

https://www.therealzerofox.com/

https://www.facebook.com/realzerofox

https://www.instagram.com/therealzerofox/

And here's an interesting thread from FB that shows how many writers struggle... https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02m3khDoYTXayLGBUdDMEJrU3HxvDRZHQEKidL7j9XCrpKGohHGvaVtYynFe2bZMzEl&id=100057764975418&mibextid=CDWPTG

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Reneau talks openly about the importance of learning to take good critical feedback to ensure your writing will make sense to your ideal readers. He shares his process, how he gets good beta readers and a bit about his own experience in the subjective nature of feedback from traditional publishing.

This newest book by Reneau Peurifoy can help writers, not only with their own core emotional patterns day-to-day, but in creating characters who resonate deeply with readers!

Find more info about Reneau and his work here:

https://www.whyemotions.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@reneaupeurifoy2956

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Not only did we cover her incredible (and really kind of shocking!) first publisher meeting along with what she's learnt along the way about how literary memoir is often misunderstood, what it takes to really write a compelling memoir as a debut author and we dive into so much more. This ep was already so chock full of great stories, we decided to make it Part 1 of 2, so stay tuned!!

To learn more about Louisa and check out all that she offers writers...

https://louisadeasey.com/

https://www.instagram.com/louisadeasey

https://www.youtube.com/@LouisaDeaseytv

To connect with Anjanette, you can email: anjanette (at) storyaslife.com

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As always, a vulnerable writerly convo where we chatted about the serious themes in her book, letting a younger voice highlight some of the unexpected ramifications on family and community where domestic violence is seen & heard, but not addressed and so much more!

Monique shared her experience with coming back to her own writing after feeling disconnected (for a longer time than she'd expected) and we both chat about ways to move through the ebbs and flows that all writers can expect to experience. I think more emerging authors need to hear the truth of what working writers (all) go through as they navigate their creative expression in the real world!

To find out more about Monique and to get your hands on her gorgeous book...

https://moniquemulligan.com/

https://www.instagram.com/moniquemulliganauthor/

https://www.facebook.com/MoniqueMulliganAuthor

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Lorissa joins us again to talk with Tracy Dawson about how they each came to their book writing process, how they sold their first manuscripts and the path toward selling their second. They each share some surprises they've learnt along the way as well as their excitement about bringing MORE readers to a genre that may be overlooked by female readers. This was a definitely a convo that will have a part 2, so jump in to hear what these fabulous writers shared...

If you haven't yet gotten your hands on their books, please do (highly recommend as required reading!):

Tracy Dawson

https://tracydawson.net/

https://www.instagram.com/dawsontracy

https://www.twitter.com/dawsontracy

If you need more encouragement to check out Let Me Be Frank, look at these endorsements!

"An entertaining, astonishing collection celebrating the diverse trailblazers who disguised themselves as men...Let Me Be Frank is a witty, sometimes infuriating, wholly inspiring look at the lengths that women had to go to." - Buzzfeed

“A smart, funny journey through history that introduces us to the rule breakers who made history worth traveling through. So well-written.”—Patton Oswalt

“Tracy has such a gift for storytelling and making history leap off the page. Her book has a wit that suggests it was written by a man since everyone knows women aren't this funny.”—Kay Cannon

Lorissa Rinehart

https://lorissarinehart.com/

https://www.instagram.com/lorissa_rinehart

Lorissa's book, First to the Front, is out NOW and getting huge buzz...

"Jam-packed with colorful details and incisive character sketches, this is a vivid reappraisal of a pioneering journalist." ―Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"An astonishing story...exquisite. After reading this enthralling book, now, when someone asks, 'What three people from history would you have over for dinner?' My first choice is easy: At the head of the table is the incomparable Dickey Chapelle. Next to her, the other two guests will be fighting for table scraps." ―Buddy Levy, author of Empire of Ice and Stone: The Disastrous and Heroic Voyage of the Karluk

"An extraordinary story, told with cinematic flair. Chapelle's groundbreaking career should be studied in every journalism school in the country. Rinehart's vivid prose makes us feel like we're right there with her through all her trials and triumphs." ―J. Martin Daughtry, author of Listening to War: Sound, Music, Trauma, and Survival in Wartime Iraq

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We talk all things surrender, finding the spiritual in our work, the beauty of getting to live vicariously through some characters and so, so much more. I loved hearing about her approach to writing (and starting on a new project as soon as the last has finished, thanks to unprompted-but-insightful advice she once received) and what her first two novels are really about. Without a doubt, if you think you know where the story's going after the first few chapters...you're probably wrong!

You'll definitely want to get your hands on her book, so find out more about Zoë here-

https://www.zoecoyle.com

https://www.instagram.com/zoe.hearts.books/

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This week we dive into a convo about the similarities and differences between long form novel writing and the snappier sort of writing expected when writing for screen. Rachael shares her experience in writing both - and how she works bouncing between the two! I absolutely loved her insight (and make sure to hold out for her mic drop moment near the end of the ep) ;)

Want to dive into more about Rachael and her writing, check her out here:

https://www.therealzerofox.com/

https://www.facebook.com/realzerofox

https://www.instgram.com/therealzerofox

And run out to get your hands on a copy of her new novel!!

DEAD FAMOUS: A Kat Alley Mystery

If you'd like more info on Anjanette, check her out here:

https://www.anjanettefennell.com

https://www.facebook.com/storyaslife

https://www.instagram.com/anj_fen

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We chatted about the themes found in her debut novel - racism and religion - as well as her process of writing outside of her lived experience, the importance of working with sensitivity readers and more. She shared her insights into the seasons she has for writing, editing and promo as well as how she's managed to weave some awkward life moments into unfortgetable scenes in her novel!

To find out more about Kate (and get your hands on this gorgeous book, follow her here:

https://www.katesolly.com/

https://www.facebook.com/katesollywrites

https://www.instagram.com/katesollywriter

Want to see what Anj is up to? You can find her here:

https://www.facebook.com/storyaslife

https://www.instagram.com/anj_fen

And get onto her newsletter by signing up at the bottom of the page here:

https://www.anjanettefennell.com/

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We got to chat about setting as a character, the power of observing (yourself and others), how your process can change over time and finding ways of creating a larger story for real life characters who may otherwise go down in history with a whisper instead of the shout they deserve...and, of course, so much more. 

Murder on Mustang Beach is out now!! Follow these links to find out more about Alicia and her books -

https://www.aliciabessette.com

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082843809338

https://www.instagram.com/aliciabessettebooks

As always, to follow Anjanette or get in touch about being on the podcast, she can be found here - 

https://www.anjanettefennell.com

https://www.facebook.com/storyaslife

https://www.instagram.com/anj_fen

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/writers_talking_podcast

And please SHARE with your writerly friends and leave us a REVIEW on your fave podcast player!

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NOTE: we talk about depression, anxiety, HRT and neurodiversity in this episode as well as being medicated. Our experiences should NOT be taken as medical advice. We recommend all listeners check with their GP or primary care physician about what sort of support might be needed.

As each of the writers express in the episode, it's so important to bring these conversations to light. Mental health (and getting treated for it - either briefly or long term) should NOT be taboo. You deserve to feel GOOD about your every day as well as your creative expression.

We would LOVE to hear from you, so please share your own experiences with creativity, mental health, medication and more by emailing us at anjanette (at) storyaslife (dot) com

Want to find out more about our fabulous panelists?

Emma Grey

https://www.emmagrey.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/emmagreyauthor

https://www.instagram.com/emmagreyauthor

Rachael Morgan

https://www.therealzerofox.com/

https://www.facebook.com/realzerofox

https://www.instagram.com/therealzerofox

Nina Campbell

https://ninadcampbell.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/NinaDCampbellwrites

https://www.instagram.com/nina.d.campbell.author

Anjanette Fennell

https://www.anjanettefennell.com/

https://www.facebook.com/storyaslife

https://www.instagram.com/anj_fen

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We dove into things by talking about the importance of a compelling narrative in biography that goes beyond 'first this happened, then that happened', but soon were chatting about the (relatable) juggle that writers, who are also mums of young children, have when it comes to research, writing and editing. Lorissa dropped some publishing truthbombs when it comes to choosing your next project and gave us a sneak peek into her next book!

I *highly* recommend getting this title on your pre-order list (you will LOVE Dickey Chapelle - her story needs to be shared more widely)!!

Check out more about Lorissa here (and click the pre-order button):

https://lorissarinehart.com/

https://www.instagram.com/lorissa_rinehart

Don't forget to follow us on socials:

https://www.instagram.com/writers_talking_podcast/

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Whether you're reaching out to share how a piece of writing connected or, as in their case, simply reaching out to acknowledge the challenge of putting out vulnerable and transformative work, taking the time to connect with a writer is such an underrated gift.

If you'd like to find out more about each of our writers (and get their books!), check them out here...

Kate Solly

https://katesolly.com/

https://www.facebook.com/katesollywrites

https://www.instagram.com/katesollywriter

Emma Grey

https://www.emmagrey.com.au

https://www.facebook.com/emmagreyauthor

https://www.instagram.com/emmagreyauthor

And if you'd like to check out what Anjanette is up to...

https://www.anjanettefennell.com

https://www.facebook.com/storyaslife

https://www.instagram.com/anj_fen

https://www.instagram.com/writers_talking_podcast

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A great episode for new and experienced authors alike, especially in these days of questioning which platform is 'best' for connecting with readers.

If you'd like to find out more about Emma and her books ( and to start your own fun convo with her on social media!)...

https://www.emmagrey.com

https://facebook.com/emmagreyauthor

https://instagram.com/emmagreyauthor

https://tiktok.com/emmagreyauthor

And if you'd like to find out more about Anjanette's world, you can find her at these links:

https://www.anjanettefennell.com

https://facebook.com/storyaslife

https://instagram.com/anj_fen

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We dove straight in to chat about how she (as an ambivert) handles different promo events, what she does to make herself feel more grounded and excited for them as well as sharing more about her writerly process, the themes she's noticed are really resonant for her in her latest novels and some of her fave author-adjecent activites like mentoring new writers and hosting a monthly book club.

If you've not yet read her latest book, The One and Only Dolly Jamieson, grab it now! I'm still thinking of the indomitable Dolly weeks after finishing the book :)

To learn more about Lisa (and grab her books):

https://www.lisairelandbooks.com

https://facebook.com/lisairelandbooks

https://instagram.com/lisairelandbooks

And to join her online book club:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/149288140312440/

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A not-to-be-missed episode if you're in the middle of writing your memoir or just in the planning stages. Kristen Holzapfel and Lisa Barlin shared so much insight into their process as well as some specifics about the focus of their stories - I was honoured to be part of the convo!

If you'd like to get your hands on a copy of Kristen's book, SELFLESS: a social worker’s own story of trauma and recovery, send me an email at anjanette@storyaslife.com!

And, if you're an agent or publisher who would like to read Lisa's no-holds-barred manuscript, send me an email at anjanette@storyaslife.com and I'll put you in touch!!

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We dive into how they experience connection to their writerly peers as well as readers, how they feel about promoting their work and more. Such a juicy conversation!!

To find out more about each of these authors, check them out here:

Fleur McDonald

W - https://www.fleurmcdonald.com/

IG - https://www.instagram.com/fleurmcdonald

FB- https://www.facebook.com/FleurMcDonaldAuthor

Darry Fraser

W - https://www.darryfraser.com

IG - https://www.instagram.com/darryfraserauthor

FB - https://www.facebook.com/darry.fraser

Lisa Ireland

W - https://www.lisairelandbooks.com

IG - https://www.instagram.com/lisairelandbooks

FB - https://www.facebook.com/lisairelandbooks

Looking for writerly inspo and support? You can...

- Binge the other Writers Talking Podcast eps! 

- Check out Anj's website at https://www.anjanettefennell.com

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This season we'll be diving even deeper into real conversations with writers you know well...and those who you might just be learning about for the first time.

In this episode, I chat with Matthew Quick, writer of novels and screenplays, best known for Silver Linings Playbook, which became and Oscar winning movie. After reading his latest book, We Are the Light, and hearing him talk in my book club, I knew I wanted to have a convo about his passion for Jungian analysis, how he moved past a writerly lull and so. much. more.

If you haven't already, grab a copy of his book We Are the Light (sure to be on my top reads of 2023) and check out all of his work via his website at https://www.matthewquickwriter.com

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But we had a brilliant conversation about choosing to write memoir-ish fiction, the power of surrendering to the writer you are naturally and surprising me with her stance on multi-book deals (at least for her)!!

Find out more about Catherine and her books here (and then, for goodness sake, buy ALL of them, especially We All Want Impossible Things):

https://www.catherinenewmanwriter.com/

https://instagram.com/catherinenewman

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If you haven't heard of her, you've been missing out!! Check out her books below, look at the stunning Zibby Mag (a literary lifestyle destination), her award-winning podcast, Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books and allll of the other beautiful waves she's creating in the world. The first Zibby Books titles launch in February 2023 and I personally cannot wait!!

Buy books and connect with Zibby here:

https://www.zibbyowens.com/books

https://www.zibbyowens.com/zibby-mag

https://www.zibbyowens.com/podcast

https://instagram.com/zibbyowens

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To find out more about Katie and to buy her books, check her out here:

https://www.katiesise.com/

https://instagram.com/katiesise

If you have suggestions for the show, please feel free to reach out on Instagram at: https://instagram.com/writers_talking_podcast

Or you can email me at anjanette (at) storyaslife (dot) com

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Find out more about Katherine here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-b-503a4b16 https://instagram.com/kat_berney80

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To learn more about each of our authors, check out their links!

https://www.emmagrey.com.au

https://facebook.com/emmagreyauthor

https://www.rachaelsmorgan.com

https://www.facebook.com/realzerofox

https://www.beverleyoakley.com

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorBeverleyOakley/

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To find out more about Lisa (and buy her books!) click here:

https://www.newauthorscollective.com/site/lisa_darcy

And follow her on social media here:

https://www.facebook.com/lisa.darcy.author/

https://www.instagram.com/lisadarcyauthor/

https://twitter.com/lisadarcyauthor

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If you'd like to find out more about the panelists on today's ep, check out their websites here:

https://www.emmagrey.com.au

https://www.ninadcampbell.com.au

https://www.anjanettefennell.com

Have comments or questions? Email anjanette (at) storyaslife.com

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Sara Foster is the bestselling author of six psychological suspense novels: You Don’t Know Me, The Hidden Hours, All That is Lost Between Us, Shallow Breath, Beneath the Shadows and Come Back to Me. Her seventh novel, The Hush, a near-future thriller, was published by HarperCollins (Australia) and Blackstone (US) in November 2021. Sara lives in Western Australia with her husband and two young daughters, and is a doctoral candidate at Curtin University.

Find out more at https://www.sarafoster.com.au

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This week we have two writers whose commonalities include historical fiction and writing under different names! We dive into interesting convos about historical research, writing in multiple genres, how to manage social media as multi-genre writers, sharing outside of lived experience and so. much. more.

Find out more about each of our writers with these links: https://www.alisonstuart.com/

https://www.facebook.com/AlisonStuartWriter

https://www.sonyaspreenbates.com/

Listeners can also find Sonya on Facebook and Instagram as ‘Sonya Spreen Bates’.

The live round of Anjanette's course and membership starts next week! You can learn more at https://www.anjanettefennell.com/writers-flow-2021

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You can find out more about each of this ep's writers via their website links below:

https://www.emmagrey.com.au

https://www.ninadcampbell.com.au

https://www.rachaelsmorgan.com

https://www.anjanettefennell.com

Music: Why Don’t We (Instrumental Version) by BLAEKER via Epidemic Sound

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We chatted about the different processes for each (if there is a difference), the challenge of working on multiple projects within traditional publishing and so much more!

Check out more info about each of our fab authors here:

https://www.emmagrey.com.au/

https://www.anitaeast.com/

And if YOU are looking for support with your writing, join us for my upcoming FREE 5-day Your Path to the Page challenge here:

https://www.anjanettefennell.com/5daychallenge

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Check out more details and order their fabulous books here:

Denise Piction - https://denisepictonauthor.com.au/

Monique Mulligan - https://moniquemulligan.com/

And if you're a writer who's keen to make the most of your writing time in what remains of 2022, join me for a FREE 5-day challenge Your Path to the Page https://www.anjanettefennell.com/5daychallenge

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We’d love to chat after you listen to the convo, so come and find us on Instagram @writers_talking_podcast. And, if you like the convos, we’d love it if you left us a 5-star review and shared the podcast with your writerly community! You can find out more about each of this ep's writers via their website links below:

https://www.emmagrey.com.au

https://www.ninadcampbell.com.au

https://www.rachaelsmorgan.com

https://www.anjanettefennell.com

Music: Why Don’t We (Instrumental Version) by BLAEKER via Epidemic Sound

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Find out more about each of our writers with these links:

https://www.alisonstuart.com/

https://www.facebook.com/AlisonStuartWriter

https://www.beverleyoakley.com

https://www.bgnettelton.com https://www.facebook.com/AuthorBeverleyOakley/ https://www.facebook.com/BGNettelton

https://www.lexigreene.com.au

https://www.facebook.com/lexi.greene.75 https://www.instagram.com/lovelexigreene

And the 4 Tendencies quiz mentioned can be found here: https://gretchenrubin.com/take-the-quiz

https://www.anjanettefennell.com

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Check out more details on each of our writers at the following links:

https://www.victoriapurman.com/

https://www.emmagrey.com.au

https://www.ninadcampbell.com.au

https://www.anjanettefennell.com

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If you're in Sydney, you can catch them ALL right now as part of the 2022 BAD Sydney Crime Writer's Festival (https://www.badsydney.com) and/or follow them at their links below:

Rae Cairns - https://www.raecairns.com

Nina D Campbell - https://ninadcampbell.com.au/

Mercedes Mercier - https://www.mercedesmercier.com

And if you're keen to get the writerly info Mercedes and Rae experienced with Candice Fox during the height of lockdown, check out Candice's FB page here: https://www.facebook.com/candicefoxauthor/videos

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We’d love to chat after you listen to the convo, so come and find us on Instagram @writers_talking_podcast. And, if you like the convos, we’d love it if you left us a 5-star review and shared the podcast with your writerly community!

You can find out more about each of this ep's writers via their website links below:

https://www.emmagrey.com.au

https://www.ninadcampbell.com.au

https://www.rachaelsmorgan.com

https://www.anjanettefennell.com

Music: Why Don’t We (Instrumental Version) by BLAEKER via Epidemic Sound

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

https://www.emmagrey.com.au

https://www.ninadcampbell.com.au

https://www.rachaelsmorgan.com

https://www.anjanettefennell.com

Music: Why Don’t We (Instrumental Version) by BLAEKER via Epidemic Sound 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.