What do publishers really look for in a manuscript? Is it still possible to break into traditional publishing in 2026? And how has BookTok changed the game for authors?
In this special episode of The Write Podcast, I sit down with Sophie Hamley—publisher at Hachette Australia and bestselling author under the name Sophie Green—for a candid, behind-the-scenes look at the publishing industry.
We talk about:
- How to pitch your novel to agents and publishers - Whether you really need an agent in today’s market-
Mistakes writers make when submitting
- The rise of self-publishing and where it fits now
- The truth about BookTok, platforms, and building an audience
- What publishers are acquiring in 2026 (romance, kids, fantasy and more)
Whether you're a self-published author hoping to go traditional, or you're just starting to submit, this is one of the most insightful and practical interviews I’ve ever recorded. Sophie’s seen it all, and she doesn’t hold back.
🎓 Want to learn directly from Sophie? She’s teaching a masterclass at my Queenstown Writing Retreat this March! Book your spot now at serenadepublishing.com
This has been my biggest year yet—as an author, a publisher, and a woman. In this deeply personal solo episode, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes of 2025: how I wrote and published Songbird, a novel based on my real-life experience with emotional abuse; how I battled chronic fatigue while building my author business; and how launching The Write Podcast, hosting retreats, and organising the Sunshine Coast Fiction Festival helped me grow in more ways than one.
I’ll take you inside the wins, the struggles, and the lessons—including why special editions, translations, and in-person events became game changers, and how hiring a business manager transformed my life. Plus, I’m revealing my word for 2026 and what’s next as I step into my empire-building era—with global signings, a Shopify store, audiobooks, and more.
If you’re an author who’s ready to grow creatively and professionally, I hope this inspires you to take bold steps in the new year. Let’s do this together.
💻 Learn more: serenadepublishing.com
📚 Join Fiction Writing Academy: serenadepublishing.com/academy
📝 Download the free Brainstorming Funsheet: serenadepublishing.com
In this inspiring episode of The Write Podcast, I chat with urban fantasy and paranormal romance author H.M. Hodgson, creator of the Witch Wars series. They dive into the real journey of becoming a self-published author—from the spark of an idea to building a loyal readership through special editions, character art, and social media.
H.M. opens up about why she walked away from traditional publishing, the lessons she’s learned marketing her books, and how she stays focused as an indie author. If you’ve ever struggled with consistency, confidence, or connecting with readers, this episode is packed with honest advice and encouragement.
✨ Topics include:
How Witch Wars reimagines witches in the modern world
The power of visual storytelling through character art
Creative marketing that goes beyond paid ads
Making special editions your readers will treasure
Real talk on the hustle of self-publishing
Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the indie trenches, this episode will leave you motivated to write and publish your way—with purpose and heart.
🎧 Don’t forget to visit serenadepublishing.com for more writer resources!
At every book event lately, I’ve been seeing it—gorgeous special editions flying off tables. Think sprayed edges, foil, bonus art... and readers love them. Even if they don’t plan to read the book right away (guilty!), they still want it on their shelf.
In this episode, I’m joined by Fiona—who also writes as Amelia Shaw—an indie author who’s been ahead of the special edition trend for years. We’re pulling back the curtain on how you can create collector-worthy books that delight readers and grow your income.
✨ We cover:
What’s actually selling when it comes to special editions (not just hardcovers!)
Where to source beautiful upgrades without blowing your budget
Smart strategies for pricing, packaging, and shipping
How Fiona used special editions to grow a loyal fanbase—and her revenue
Why this trend is more than a fad (and how to future-proof your author business)
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing your book as a collector’s item, this episode is your permission slip to go all in.
In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing USA Today bestselling author TL Swan. Recorded live at the Sunshine Coast Fiction Festival in November 2025, TL shares her incredible journey of turning life's challenges into storytelling success.
We delve into her unique approach to writing, the obstacles she has overcome, and her invaluable advice for aspiring authors.
Whether you're a fan of romance novels or simply love a good success story, this conversation is filled with insights and inspiration. Join us for an engaging and inspiring episode you won't want to miss!
What do publishers really look for in a manuscript? Is it still possible to break into traditional publishing in 2026? And how has BookTok changed the game for authors?
In this special episode of The Write Podcast, I sit down with Sophie Hamley—publisher at Hachette Australia and bestselling author under the name Sophie Green—for a candid, behind-the-scenes look at the publishing industry.
We talk about:
How to pitch your novel to agents and publishers
Whether you really need an agent in today’s market
Mistakes writers make when submitting
The rise of self-publishing and where it fits now
What publishers are acquiring in 2026 (romance, kids, fantasy and more)
Whether you're a self-published author hoping to go traditional, or you're just starting to submit, this is one of the most insightful and practical interviews I’ve ever recorded. Sophie’s seen it all, and she doesn’t hold back.
🎓 Want to learn directly from Sophie? She’s teaching a masterclass at my Queenstown Writing Retreat this March! Book your spot now at serenadepublishing.com
Are you stuck in the hustle of trying to do all the things as a writer—and wondering why some advice just doesn’t work for you?
In this inspiring episode of The Write Podcast, I chat with author success coach Becca Syme about the different phases of building an author business, why quitting can actually be the smartest move, and how knowing your strengths can transform your writing career.
We also dive into the brand-new edition of her bestselling book Writer, You Need to Quit, which is currently available through Kickstarter—with late pledges still open!
✨ Becca shares powerful mindset shifts, real talk on burnout, and a fresh perspective on what it really means to succeed as an author—your way.
🎧 Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode will help you filter out the noise and start making aligned decisions that actually move you forward.🔗
Learn more about Becca and grab your late pledge here: https://betterfasteracademy.com/links 📥 Get your free Brainstorming Funsheet: https://serenadepublishing.com
In this heartfelt episode, I’m joined by my partner Tim as we share the true story behind creating the Sunshine Coast Fiction Festival—an event that grew 100 times bigger and better than I ever imagined.
We talk about what it really took to bring a brave idea to life: the fears we faced, the strengths we leaned on, and the pride we feel in the community we built together. You’ll hear how courage and collaboration made this festival possible—and why we’re already planning the 2026 event!
🎧 In this episode:
How fear almost stopped us from starting
The magic of combining strengths in a partnership
Why showing up bravely matters more than perfection
How this one idea sparked powerful collaborations
📸 Check out the festival photos and express your interest for 2026 at sunshinecoastfictionfestival.com.au
Tim Coulson is a certified councilor and the host of The Happiness Hack podcast. Learn more about him at www.tim-coulson.com
This week, I chat with romance author Emma Mugglestone about her traditionally published novel In the Long Run—a slow-burn, fake-dating romance set in a Melbourne run club. We dive into how her experience self-publishing gave her the confidence to keep going, and how a fellow writer putting her name forward led to her big break. If you're navigating a winding writing path, this episode is packed with encouragement and insight.
In this episode of The Write Podcast, I’m joined by the amazing Georgia Harper—author of What I Would Do to You, which just won Best Debut Book at the 2025 Davitt Awards. Georgia’s background blew me away: she’s worked as a psychologist with serious violent offenders and victim-survivors of crime, and also as Senior Inspector Prosecutions for RSPCA Queensland.
We talked about how her real-life experiences influence her crime fiction, what it was like to write her debut novel, and how her very first submission landed her an agent and a book deal with Penguin Random House. If you’re curious about drawing from your own expertise or wondering what it really takes to get picked up from the slush pile, you’re going to love this chat.
In this special bookclub-style episode, Sarah is joined by her friend Franny—new to the world of spicy fiction and already running a bookclub that brings women together for laughter, connection, and a few blush-worthy reads.
Together, they dive into Kat T. Masen’s How To Break My Heart—a cozy, small-town romance that’s equal parts heartfelt and steamy. Expect lots of laughs, honest reactions, and a peek into how stories like this one create real connection between women.
Whether you’re a longtime romance reader or just curious about why these books are so addictive, you’ll love this warm, hilarious conversation about love, friendship, and the power of storytelling.
✨ Grab your favorite drink and join the fun!
👉 Visit serenadepublishing.com for free resources and writing support.
🎙️ This Isn’t a Comeback. It’s a Continuation. (What Fiction Writers Can Learn from Taylor’s Showgirl Era)
✨ What if your next big moment isn't a reinvention—but a continuation of everything you've already layered?
In this solo episode, Sarah channels fangirl energy and creative fire to unpack what Taylor Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl era can teach us about storytelling, identity, and building a lasting author brand.
You’ll learn:
🪞 How to evolve your author voice without losing yourself 🎭 Why emotional resonance is the long game (and worth it) 🔁 The power of callbacks, consistency, and layered meaning 📖 What fiction writers can borrow from Taylor’s storytelling playbook 🩰 And how your “extra” creative sides can actually feed your writing
Whether you're writing your first book or your fifteenth, this episode will reignite your belief in your work—and remind you that you’re not behind, you’re just still layering.
💌 Want more support on your writing journey? Check out Fiction Writing Academy at serenadepublishing.com/academy
🔗 Visit serenadepublishing.com for free resources and more episodes.
It’s time to get your Halloween romance fix! In this special episode of The Write Podcast, I chat with author Amy Hutton, whose hilarious and heartwarming paranormal rom-com Ghosted is the perfect spooky season read.
We dive into the inspiration behind the book (yes, there’s a ghost!), the delicate balance of humour and heart in paranormal romance, and how Amy crafted such lovable, laugh-out-loud characters. Whether you're a writer looking to add a little supernatural flair to your stories or just love a good ghostly love tale, this episode is for you.
Grab your pumpkin spice latte and tune in for behind-the-scenes insights, writing tips, and lots of laughs as we celebrate Ghosted and all things Halloween romance.
👻✨ Don’t forget to visit serenadepublishing.com for more writing inspiration and free resources!
In this heartwarming episode of The Write Podcast, I’m joined by journalist-turned-author Tanya Nellestein, who shares her journey of learning to write fiction from scratch—and how writing her first novel became a deeply cathartic and healing experience.
We dive into her shift from journalism to Viking romance, the ups and downs of writing as a beginner, and her fearless approach to trying new things and embracing the creative process. Tanya also opens up about the joy of attending book signings, connecting with readers, and meeting other authors in the wild—it’s all part of building a writing life that feels rich and real.
If you’ve ever doubted your ability to write, or needed a reminder that it’s okay to learn as you go, this conversation will truly inspire you.
n this special bookclub edition, I’m joined by fantasy superfan and all-around book lover Tim Coulson to dive into the spellbinding world of The Forbidden Alchemy by Stacey McEwan. We’re talking all things magic, mayhem, and emotional rollercoasters!
Tim and I had so much fun unpacking the rich world-building, the intricate magical system, and of course—that juicy love triangle. We especially loved watching the main character’s arc unfold, with all the heartache, growth, and grit that makes a fantasy heroine unforgettable.
Whether you’ve already devoured the book or you’re just curious what all the buzz is about, this episode is your backstage pass to all the twists, turns, and swoon-worthy moments.
In this inspiring episode of The Write Podcast, Sarah Williams chats with crime fiction author Fiona Tarr about the realities of building a writing career and connecting with readers.
Fiona shares her insights on:
Learning what the market wants without losing your creative spark
The value of speaking at libraries and building community connections
Why having writer friends is essential for motivation and support
Her experience producing audiobooks with a traditional publisher versus going independent
Whether you’re dreaming about your first book or navigating the publishing landscape, this conversation is full of practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement to help you along your writing journey.
Tune in, take notes, and let Fiona’s story inspire your next step.
What if the reason you haven’t finished (or even started) your novel isn’t because you’re not good enough — but because no one ever taught you the secret?In this on-demand video, I’m revealing the truth that only successful authors know — the one thing that sets bestselling books apart from ones that go unfinished or unread.This isn’t another class about grammar or outlining.This is about unlocking the most powerful, overlooked ingredient in fiction — and once you understand it, everything about writing your novel becomes clearer, easier, and far more exciting.
In this episode, I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to work closely with one of my incredible authors, Tanya Renee. Tanya first submitted her novel Prairie Sky to Serenade Publishing over two years ago—and since then, we’ve built a strong, collaborative relationship that’s resulted in a new book every three months.
We talk about the trust and communication that go into our author–publisher partnership, how we align on strategy and timelines, and the ways we support each other creatively and professionally. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work with a boutique publishing house—or you’re dreaming of having that kind of support—this episode will give you a real, honest glimpse into how it can look when it works well.
✨ You’ll hear about
Tanya’s experience publishing under Serenade Publishing
How we maintain momentum and hit regular release goals
The mutual respect and shared vision that fuel our success
Whether you're seeking a publishing partner or want to strengthen your existing author relationships, there’s something here for you.
👉 Explore more support and opportunities at serenadepublishing.com
This week on The Write Podcast Book Club, I’m joined by debut author Elise Helliwell—whose novel Within the Space of a Second is coming soon! Together, we dive into Problematic Summer Romance, the latest romcom by Ali Hazelwood.
We chat all things summer love, sizzling chemistry, and the joy of seeing STEM heroines finally take center stage in romance. From the richly painted Sicilian setting to the layered, lovable characters, this novel gave us all the feels—and plenty to discuss.
Whether you're a writer, reader, or just a sucker for smart girls and sunshiney love stories, you’ll love this episode. 💕✨
Hit play and join us for the laughs, the insights, and a few fangirl moments.
This week’s episode is something a little different—I’m sharing a special live training I ran for the attending authors and vendors of the Sunshine Coast Fiction Festival. In this session, we dive into how to use Beventi to manage book signings, streamline preorders, and make the most of your author events.
Even if you’re not attending, this training is packed with practical tips that will help you run smoother signings, boost sales, and give your readers a fantastic experience. Whether you’re an emerging author or a seasoned pro, you’ll walk away with tools to help you shine at your next event.
And if you are in Australia—don’t miss the chance to join us in person! The Sunshine Coast Fiction Festival is bringing together some of your favorite authors including Rachael Johns, A.K. Mulford, Steffanie Holmes, and many more.
👉 Head to sunshinecoastfictionfestival.com.au to grab your ticket and be part of this amazing celebration of stories, readers, and community.