Welcome to The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, where best-selling author of the 'Inspector Anjelica Henley' series Nadine Matheson sits down with fellow authors for insightful, honest, and entertaining conversations. Each episode dives deep into the world of writing, from the publishing journey to overcoming challenges, the experiences that shape their work, and anything else that comes up when great minds come together. Whether you're a fan of gripping stories or curious about the life behind the books, 'The Conversation' promises thought-provoking chats and moments of inspiration.
If you'd like to be a guest or have a message or question, reach out to us at theconversation@nadinematheson.com.
Finalist -Independent Podcast Awards 2024
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Welcome to The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, where best-selling author of the 'Inspector Anjelica Henley' series Nadine Matheson sits down with fellow authors for insightful, honest, and entertaining conversations. Each episode dives deep into the world of writing, from the publishing journey to overcoming challenges, the experiences that shape their work, and anything else that comes up when great minds come together. Whether you're a fan of gripping stories or curious about the life behind the books, 'The Conversation' promises thought-provoking chats and moments of inspiration.
If you'd like to be a guest or have a message or question, reach out to us at theconversation@nadinematheson.com.
Finalist -Independent Podcast Awards 2024
*music: the coffee jam ©stereo_jam
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In our first episode of 2026 we are joined by the incredible author Adele Parks, as we explore her journey through the literary world and the release of her 25th novel, Our Beautiful Mess. Adele shares her experiences of storytelling from a young age, the challenges she faced in her career, and the evolution of her writing style from romantic comedies to psychological thrillers.
We delve into the significance of connection, both in her personal life and through her characters, as well as the importance of maintaining a voice in a competitive industry. Adele reflects on the lessons learned from grief, her journey as a writer, and how she balances the demands of her career with the joys of life, especially during the festive season.
This episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, creativity, and the power of storytelling. Listeners will be inspired by Adele’s candid insights and her commitment to her craft, making it the perfect start to the year.
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I'm joined by the insightful and talented author Juhea Kim. With a remarkable journey from underdog to acclaimed writer, Juhea shares her experiences navigating the publishing world, including the challenges of facing racism and sexism, her new book, A love story from the end of the world, and the importance of advocating for oneself as an artist.
Juhea opens up about her transition from being an editor to a published author, detailing the struggles of balancing her passion for writing with the realities of financial instability. She candidly discusses the impact of societal expectations on her career and the lessons learned about integrity within the publishing industry. Listeners will be captivated by Juhay's reflections on creativity, how ballet influenced her storytelling, the importance of authenticity, and the necessity of resilience in the face of adversity.
This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the importance of pursuing one's true calling despite obstacles. Juhay's journey is not just a testament to her talent but also an inspiration for all aspiring writers to stay true to themselves and their art.
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In this episode of The Conversation Reload with Nadine Matheson, we revisit a captivating discussion with the talented author Dominic Nolan, known for his acclaimed novels Vine Street and White City. Join us as we dive deep into the intricacies of writing historical fiction, the art of research, and the challenges of navigating the publishing industry.
Dominic shares his journey of living in the "rabbit hole" of research, revealing how his fascination with London history fuels his storytelling. He candidly discusses the ten-year journey to get his first novel published and what surprised him about the publishing world along the way. With humor and insight, he reflects on the importance of planning in writing and how it can paradoxically lead to greater spontaneity in creativity.
This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for writers and readers alike, as Dominic emphasises the value of trusting relationships in the publishing process and the necessity of moving forward with each new project. Listeners will find inspiration in his journey and his unique perspective on the craft of writing.
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In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we are joined by the talented author G.D. Wright, whose latest novel, Into the Fire, is making waves in the crime world. With a backdrop of Christmas cheer, Nadine and G.D. Wright dive into the intricacies of the writing process, exploring the journey from self-publishing to traditional publishing and the unexpected twists that come with it.
G.D. Wright shares his personal experiences, including the challenges he faced during his health struggles and how they shaped his writing career. The conversation takes a candid turn as they discuss the importance of community support among writers, the realities of navigating the publishing landscape, and the significance of finding one's voice in storytelling.
Listeners will be captivated by G.D.'s insights on creativity, resilience, and the beauty of writing from personal experiences. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the power of storytelling and the connections that bind us, especially during the holiday season.
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In this episode of The Conversation Reload with Nadine Matheson, we revisit a captivating discussion with debut author Remi Kone whose debut novel, Innocent Guilt, is making waves in the crime fiction world. Join us as we dive into Remi's intriguing journey from Emmy-nominated TV producer to published author, exploring her experiences in the world of television and the challenges she faced as a new novelist.
Remi shares her insights on crafting compelling characters, particularly the complexities of her protagonist, Leah Hutch, and the art of creating a truly villainous antagonist. We discuss the nuances of storytelling, the importance of character development, and how her background in TV production has influenced her writing process. With humor and honesty, Remi reflects on the highs and lows of writing, including the emotional journey of receiving feedback and the struggle to balance creativity with the demands of the publishing industry.
This episode is a celebration of perseverance, creativity, and the power of narrative. Listeners will be inspired by Remy's unique perspective and her commitment to her craft, making it a must-listen for aspiring writers and fans of crime fiction alike.
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I'm in conversation with the talented author and journalist Justin Myers, known for his insightful storytelling and unique perspective on life. Join us as we delve into his journey from a career in journalism to becoming a published author, exploring the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way.
Justin shares his candid reflections on the differences between writing for online platforms and crafting novels, revealing the emotional rollercoaster of waiting for reader reactions after years of hard work. We discuss the complexities of navigating the publishing world, the impact of reviews, and the importance of maintaining a thick skin as a writer. Through humorous anecdotes and heartfelt insights, Justin highlights the significance of storytelling in understanding our own experiences and the world around us.
This episode is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the power of connection through literature. Listeners will be inspired by Justin’s journey and his new book, The Glorious Dead, which tackles themes of grief, love, and the intricacies of human relationships.
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This is the reload of the milestone 100th episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, with the talented and award-winning author M.W. Craven. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of crime writing, exploring M.W.'s unique journey from probation officer to bestselling author of the Washington Post and Ben Koenig series.
M.W. shares his insights on the importance of being in the right place at the right time, the impact of his previous career on his storytelling, and the responsibility that comes with being an author. We also discuss the challenges and triumphs of navigating the literary landscape, including the significance of building connections within the writing community and the ever-evolving nature of the genre.
Listeners will be inspired by M.W.'s candid reflections on success, the writing process, and the balance between creativity and business in the publishing world. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for aspiring writers and avid readers alike, making it a must-listen as we countdown to Christmas and the New Year .
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In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we are excited to welcome the talented and insightful Alison Larkin, author of Grief: A Comedy. We explore her remarkable journey from being adopted to becoming a successful writer, comedian, and audiobook narrator. Alison shares her experiences of searching for her birth mother and how that journey transformed her understanding of love, loss, and creativity.
As we dive into Alison's life story, she opens up about her upbringing in England, her adventures in the United States, and the profound impact of her relationships, particularly with her late fiancé, Bhima. Through laughter and heartfelt reflections, Alison discusses the complexities of grief and the importance of living life to the fullest, even in the face of loss.
This conversation is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of storytelling to connect us all. Listeners will be inspired by Alison’s journey of self-discovery, her passion for writing, and her belief in the enduring nature of love. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating their own path through life’s challenges.
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The Conversation Reload
In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we are thrilled to reload one of our most popular episodes featuring the Sunday Times and New York Times bestselling author, Ruth Ware. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of the publishing world, exploring whether working in the book industry aids in getting published, the impact of social media on writing advice, and how Ruth navigates her success.
Ruth shares her journey from aspiring writer to bestselling author, recounting pivotal moments that shaped her career, including the realization that writing was more than just a hobby. We discuss the importance of perseverance, the challenges of maintaining creativity amidst the chaos of life, and the emotional rollercoaster of publishing a new book.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into the realities of the writing process, the pressures of creating engaging narratives, and the unpredictable nature of success in the literary landscape. Ruth’s candid reflections on her experiences will resonate with aspiring writers and readers alike, making this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about storytelling.
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Watch Amy McCulloch's ultra marathon journey
In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we are delighted to welcome the adventurous and talented author Amy McCulloch, known for her thrilling novels that push the boundaries of both genre and personal endurance. Join us as we explore her latest work, Runner 13, a gripping tale that intertwines the high-stakes world of ultra running with a captivating mystery.
Amy shares her incredible journey, from her experiences climbing mountains and running ultra marathons to the challenges of motherhood and the writing process. We delve into the themes of her latest novel, including resilience, the pursuit of personal goals, and the complexities of female empowerment in the face of adversity. With her unique perspective on life and writing, Amy offers invaluable insights into the creative process and the importance of community in the literary world.
Listeners will be inspired by Amy's candid reflections on overcoming obstacles, both in her personal and professional life, and her unwavering belief in the power of storytelling to connect us all. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of adventure, creativity, and the human experience.
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In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we are thrilled to welcome the acclaimed author Lily King, known for her captivating novels that explore the intricacies of love and relationships. Join us as we dive deep into her latest work, Heart the Lover, a poignant narrative that spans three decades and examines the many forms of love
Lily shares her journey as a writer, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs she has faced throughout her career. We discuss the idea of success in the literary world, the pressure of expectations, and the importance of perseverance in the face of self-doubt. As she recounts her early days of writing and the pivotal moments that shaped her path, listeners will gain insight into the creative process and the emotional resilience required to navigate the unpredictable nature of publishing.
Throughout the conversation, we explore the themes of Heart of the Lover, including the complexities of romantic love, friendship, and the passage of time. Lily's candid anecdotes and reflections on her experiences will resonate with aspiring writers and readers alike, making this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about storytelling.
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In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we are joined by the insightful Kasim Ali, author of the thought-provoking novel Who Will Remain. Join us as we delve into the complexities of identity, family, and the struggles young men face in today's society.
Kasim shares his journey as a writer, discussing the challenges of portraying the realities of his community authentically while navigating the expectations placed on him as a South-East Asian author. We explore the themes of his novel, which follows Ahmed, a young man grappling with loss, societal pressures, and the quest for self-identity amidst chaos. As he turns to a life of crime in search of respect and control, the narrative raises poignant questions about choices, consequences, and the quest for belonging.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into the creative process, the importance of representation in literature, and the personal experiences that shape a writer's voice. This episode is a compelling exploration of how our backgrounds influence our narratives and the power of storytelling to challenge societal norms.
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In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we welcome the talented Gytha Lodge, author of the gripping new standalone thriller Dead to Me. Join us as we dive into the intricacies of writing a standalone novel and the challenges that come with creating new characters and settings.
Gytha shares her journey of crafting Dead to Me, a story centered around Anna, a journalist who goes undercover to investigate a mysterious death at a Cambridge May Ball. As she navigates her way through a world of privilege and secrets, she must also confront her complicated past with her ex-boyfriend Reid, who receives a desperate email from Anna just as she goes missing. We discuss the balance of writing a compelling narrative while managing personal challenges, the importance of character relationships, and the thrill of setting a story in a familiar yet evolving environment.
Listeners will enjoy insights into the creative process, the significance of emotional depth in characters, and the humorous anecdotes of Gytha's own experiences while researching for the book. This episode is a captivating exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the art of storytelling.
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In this episode of The Conversation Coffee Break, host Nadine Matheson welcomes the brilliant Alexandra Benedict, author of the delightful murder mystery, The Christmas Cracker Killer. Join us as we dive into the whimsical world of Christmas-themed mysteries and the creative process behind writing a festive whodunit.
Alexandra shares her journey of crafting this unique story, which features her protagonist Edie O'Sullivan, an 82-year-old crossword setter with a flair for fashion and a sharp wit. Set on a remote Scottish island during a luxurious Christmas getaway, Edie and her companions find themselves embroiled in a series of puzzling murders, all linked to bespoke Christmas crackers filled with riddles. We discuss the challenges of writing a holiday-themed book, the importance of character development, and how Alexandra balances multiple writing projects simultaneously.
Listeners will enjoy insights into the intricacies of planning a mystery, the significance of titles, and the surprising facts Alexandra learned while researching Christmas crackers. This episode is a festive treat, perfect for those who love a good mystery wrapped in holiday cheer.
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In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we welcome the talented Melissa McTernan aka Laurie Gilmore, an author who has captivated readers with her 'Dream Harbour' series. Join us as we discuss her journey from self-publishing to landing a deal with HarperCollins UK and the evolution of her writing career.
Melissa shares her experiences of writing while balancing motherhood, the challenges of marketing her books, and the unexpected success of her cozy romance series. We dive into the creative process behind her latest book, The Gingerbread Bakery, and how her characters have developed over time, including the highly anticipated story of Annie and Max.
Listeners will enjoy insights into the world of cozy mysteries and romances, the importance of community in the writing process, and Laura's thoughts on imposter syndrome. This episode is a delightful exploration of creativity and the journey of a writer who continues to inspire others with her heartfelt stories.
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In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we delve into the captivating world of gothic literature with the talented Laura Purcell. Join us as we discuss her latest novel, House of Splinters, a prequel to her bestselling book, The Silent Companions. Set in a haunted house in 1775, the story follows Belinda as she uncovers dark family secrets while trying to protect her children from the shadows of the past.
Laura shares her writing journey, including the challenges and pressures of crafting a prequel that honors its predecessor while standing on its own. We explore the intricacies of character development, the balance of historical accuracy, and how personal experiences shape her storytelling. Additionally, we discuss the ever-changing landscape of publishing and the importance of resilience in a writer's career.
This episode is a fascinating exploration of creativity, the gothic genre, and the art of storytelling, offering listeners insights into the mind of a writer who continues to push boundaries.
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In this episode of The Conversation Coffee Break, join host Nadine Matheson as she chats with the remarkable Marvellous Michael Anson about her newly released epic fantasy novel, Firstborn of the Sun. Today marks a significant milestone as we celebrate the book's publication day!
Marvellous shares the inspiration behind her captivating story, steeped in Yoruba culture and mythology, and how a seemingly ordinary moment, viewing ice caps in the Sahara Desert, sparked the creation of a fantastical world filled with adventure, politics, and complex characters. We delve into the intricacies of character development, the challenges of writing a trilogy, and the importance of identity in a world that often feels unwelcoming.
Listeners will discover how Marvellous navigated her writing journey, the surprising twists her characters took, and the valuable lessons she learned about resilience and self-discovery through her protagonist, Laura. This episode is a celebration of creativity, culture, and the magic of storytelling, leaving you inspired to embrace your own narrative journey.
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In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, I have the pleasure of chatting with the delightful Necole Ryse aka R.L. Killmore, an author who has made waves in the cozy mystery genre. We dive into her latest work, A Cinnamon Falls Mystery, which follows the story of Mia, a young woman returning to her hometown after a devastating breakup, only to find herself embroiled in a murder mystery.
Necole shares her unique writing journey, discussing her transition from self-published author to traditional publishing and the challenges she faced along the way. We explore the importance of community in the writing world, the role of representation, and how her experiences as a librarian have shaped her perspective on storytelling.
Join us as we uncover the heartwarming and humorous elements of cozy mysteries, the significance of supportive family and friends, and the creative process behind bringing Mia's story to life. This episode is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the joy of writing, leaving listeners inspired to pursue their own literary dreams.
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On this week's episode, we discuss Ireland's UBI experiment for artists and writers, and why we would love to see other countries follow suit (but aren't holding our breath). Plus, we look at why indie presses are pressing the panic button, and discuss the latest BookTok marketing scheme - theme-scented books (a topic Tariq gets very excited about!)
00:00 Intro
01:10 Luck of the Irish - UBI for writers
13:45 Indie Presses - Time for trade support?
24:34 Smell of Success? TikTok, Trends and Garlic Mayo
39:56 Off Script - Nadine finds another stranger than fiction story for inspiration
46:18 Off Script - Horror Movie updates and True Crime chat
Links:
Ireland's Basic income for the Arts Scheme made permanent
Indie Presses in existential crisis call for support
Nadine's Stranger than Fiction story
Adventures in Publishing-land is brought to you by STET Podcasts - the one stop shop for all your writing podcast needs, featuring Page One - The Writer's Podcast, The Conversation with Nadine Matheson and more!
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Today I'm taking a coffee break with the talented Vaseem Khan, an acclaimed author known for his captivating storytelling and engaging characters. We dive into his latest novel, Quantum of Menace, the first in a new mystery series featuring Q from the James Bond franchise.
Vaseem shares his unique journey in stepping into the world of Bond, discussing the creative process behind reimagining Q as a complex character navigating life after MI6. We explore the intricacies of writing within an established universe while also infusing personal touches and contemporary themes into the narrative.
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