Afleveringen
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Fiona Lucas is my Christmas Eve guest and in our conversation, we talk about her journey through the world of romance writing, breaking down stereotypes and sharing valuable insights into her creative process. Listen as Fiona, with her vibrant personality, shares her creative process, delves into the chaotic yet humorous world of publishing, and offers insights into transitioning from series romance to wider commercial fiction. We also talk about being a BookTok influencer and her latest book, "Always and Only You"
Always and Only You
Erin is about to marry the love of her life. She and Simon have been together for eight years so it feels right that they’re finally tying the knot. It’s been stressful balancing the demands of friends and family – not to mention Simon’s difficult best man, Gil – but Erin couldn’t be happier.Couldn’t be happier, that is, until she walks down the aisle and finds the wrong man waiting for her. But is the universe playing a cruel trick on Erin, or could it be that her perfect life isn’t quite what she imagined…?
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Kate Ruby, renowned author and TV producer, joins me to unpack her incredible journey from crafting lighthearted rom-coms to penning edge-of-your-seat domestic thrillers. This episode doesn't just skim the surface; we dissect Kate's career evolution and delve into the unique experiences that shaped her storytelling skills, from her unconventional childhood to her dynamic roles in television production at major networks like Channel 4 and the BBC.
Her insights into transitioning between the collaborative nature of TV and the solitary world of novel writing offer invaluable lessons for any creative balancing multiple pursuits.
Kate and I talk about her new novel, Everything You Have, discuss adapting books for TV and dissect the demands of both screenwriting and novel writing. The conversation is rich with advice for anyone looking to navigate the unpredictable waters of the publishing industry and creative fields, emphasizing the need for resilience, adaptability, and authenticity.
Everything You Have
The perfect assistant is not all she seems in this gripping suspense thriller from the author of the Richard & Judy pick Tell Me Your Lies.
Sasha Fulton looks like she has it all – the glittering media career, the happy marriage, the perfect kids. But the truth behind the shining façade is very different. The job is nothing but pressure, and the stroppy teens aren’t even hers. She’s fast reaching breaking point.
When Sasha’s new twenty-something assistant Jenna walks through the door, she seems like the answer to her prayers. Dazzlingly efficient, with a whip-smart wit, Sasha’s soon wondering how she ever lived without her.
But with trouble mounting at home and at work, Sasha is starting to lose control. As the lines between professional and personal become dangerously blurred, she feels like there’s only one person she can rely on.
Sasha is heading for a fall. But is Jenna there to catch her, or to push her over the edge?
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Louise Minchin, a familiar face from BBC Breakfast, takes us beyond the red sofa and into the crime fiction world with her debut novel, "Isolation Island." Our conversation unveils the transformation from journalism to thriller writing, sharing the emotional highs and the challenges of stepping into an entirely new career path. Louise candidly discusses the courage it took to transition from non-fiction to fiction, and how her experiences on "I'm a Celebrity" inspired her storytelling journey.
Listeners will gain insight into the art of crafting thrillers as Louise contrasts her previous work in journalism with the immersive narratives of her new book. We explore the nuances of character development and how unexpected real-life events, like her experiences with storms, influenced the plot of "Isolation Island."
Isolation Island
TEN CELEBRITIES...
Arrive on a remote Scottish island
TWO WEEKS...
to win the prize of a lifetime
ONE DARK SECRET...
And the game turns deadly.
Ten celebrities have arrived to take part in a gruelling reality survival show: two weeks completely alone on a remote Scottish island, in the depths of winter. With some careers on the rise, and others whose star is fading, almost everyone has something to play for. But investigative journalist Lauren has one question - what does Hollywood megastar Nate Stirling have to gain by taking part?
With a production team that seems incapable of keeping them safe, a gathering storm and the unrelenting gaze of hidden cameras, the contestants are stretched to the limit as they try to outshine their fellow competitors and hide their darkest secrets.
But when a body is found, it's clear that the game has become a matter of life and death...
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Sunday Times bestselling author Karen Swan, takes us on a journey through her unexpected path to authorship, from journalism to becoming a bestselling novelist. She recounts how an innocuous library visit revealed her innate storytelling gift, challenging her preconceived career notions.
We talk about the critical balancing act between creativity and professionalism in publishing, diving into the realities of the editing process and her new novel, 'All I Want for Christmas'.
All I Want For Christmas
Can she find love this Christmas?
Christmas in Copenhagen is a magical time of year but Darcy Cotterell isn’t feeling festive. Newly single, again, she's not even going home for Christmas. Instead she will be spending her holiday finishing her art history PhD. Her best friend, Freja, has other ideas. She signs Darcy up to a dating app, determined that she won't be lonely this Christmas.
Darcy agrees to three dates – but her mind is on work, not play: an unknown portrait by Denmark’s greatest painter has been found and she is tasked with identifying the woman in the painting. During her research, she encounters sexy, arrogant lawyer Max Lorensen – who happens to be bachelor number one! The attraction is instant but, knowing they must work together, they abandon the match. Or try to. But their feelings are undeniable - until Darcy discovers Max has an agenda . . .
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Our episode features a riveting chat with author Jamie West, who brings a wealth of knowledge from his theatre background to the self-publishing scene. Jamie helps us draw fascinating parallels between the theatre and publishing, emphasising the value of all entertainment forms, from popular culture to high art.
Forget the notion of "guilty pleasures"—we champion the joy of consuming art in its myriad forms and talk about his new book, Murder At The Matinee. Experience the hard work that goes into crafting stories that resonate and entertain, and being an independent publisher.
Murder At The Matinee
Renowned murder mystery playwright Bertie Carroll returns, this time in London's West End, to solve the mystery of an impossible murder and the newspaper advert that preceded it.
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Read my substack article about book piracy.Send us a text
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We're joined by debut author Roxie Key, who opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of releasing her first book, "The Deadly Spark." From wrestling with imposter syndrome to navigating life-changing events like pregnancy, Roxie's candid reflections offer a deeply personal look at the fears and triumphs of a first-time author.
We talk about the realities of publishing, the unexpected challenges of self-promotion and public speaking, and the vital importance of understanding that not everyone will love every book.
Whether you’re an aspiring writer or a seasoned author, this episode promises to equip you with insights into the multifaceted world of writing and publishing.
The Deadly Spark
Once secrets catch, they spread.Deadly fires are lighting up Brighton, and the latest case is alarmingly close to home for DC Eve Starling. The blaze was deliberately set, and a mother and daughter didn’t make it out of the smoke.
Eve’s investigation takes her deep into her own uncomfortable past. When her key witness disappears, and with the killer always one step ahead, Eve is desperate to solve the case – whatever the cost.
But Eve has no idea how close she is to the flames, and playing with fire can get you burned…
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What if the keys to navigating life's unpredictable journey lie in the intersection of creativity, failure, and joy? Join me as I sit down with the multi-talented Damilare Kuku, an author and actress noted for her profound reflections on life and art.
We talk about her new novel, "Only Big Bum Bum Matters Tomorrow" and unravel how her passion for storytelling serves as a powerful tool for offloading personal burdens and finding happiness amidst online criticism.
Only Big Bum Bum Matters Tomorrow
Fresh out of university, 20-year-old Témì has a clear plan for her future: she is going to surgically enlarge her backside like all the other Nigerian women, move from Ile-Ife to Lagos, and meet a man who will love her senseless. When she finally finds the courage to tell her mother, older sister, and aunties, at the funeral of her beloved father, her announcement causes an uproar - because in Nigerian families, none of your business is private. Not even if it’s about your bumbum.
But as each of the other women try to cure Témì of what they consider to be insanity, the long-buried secrets that bind and separate them are spilled in the process. In the end, it seems like Témì might be the sanest one...
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Join us on a journey through the trials and triumphs of publishing, as Cameron Capello opens up about the surreal moments of recognition as a content creator. We talk about the emotional rollercoaster of reviews, the evolution of familial support, and how social media platforms like BookTok play a crucial role in building confidence and community. Get a glimpse into the creative process behind "I'll Look for You Everywhere," and enjoy a playful session of casting its characters.
Together, we explore the power of manifesting dreams and how the unlikeliest journeys, like Cameron's transformation into a TikTok sensation, redefine what it means to be a modern-day author.
I'll Look For You Everywhere
Magdalen Savoy has just finished her first year of university at Oxford, where she has finally built a life for herself away from the demons she has done everything to try to forget. But, when she can no longer ignore the growing pile of invitations to her sister’s wedding she must leave her feelings behind and return to Italy.
Theo Sinclair was the golden boy of Chivasso: athletic, intelligent, too suave for his own good. So, when he cut all ties and boarded a 5 a.m. flight to Connecticut seven years ago, no one could understand what had pushed him to leave.
Pulled back to their small Italian hometown for the wedding, Magdalen and Theo soon realize they’re no longer the children they once were. In the winding streets of Chivasso and under the burning summer sun, there are only so many corners for the two to hide behind. Confronted with the ghosts of their pasts, they must face both the growing tension between them and the long buried secrets that threaten to tear their worlds apart – secrets that could separate them for ever . . .
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Join us in 'The Writer's Inn'
This is a space that Dorothy (Koomson) and Nadine (Matheson) have set up so you can have a bit of company, fun and support while you write this November. We may extend this beyond that, but we’re just focusing on November right now. We wanted an alternative to the other November-based writing space where you can drop by as needed and start, continue or finish that writing project you’ve been meaning to get to. Want to write in company? This is the place to do it.
Join Us.
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Welcome to a special bonus episode of The Conversation. This episode which is also available to watch on YouTube celebrates Black History Month and Black crime writers.
Join us as we bring together the brilliant minds of Dorothy Koomson, Amen Alonge and Leye Adenle for a conversation that's as enlightening as it is entertaining. Dorothy shares her fascinating journey from crafting romantic comedies to weaving emotional thrillers, while Amen reveals how a lifelong passion for crime fiction ignited his writing career and Leye adds an extra layer of intrigue, reflecting on how his Nigerian heritage influences his narrative choices and fuels his storytelling excitement.
In this episode we laugh, discuss and answer audience questions such as 'What draws a writer to crime fiction?', and 'how does one's background shape the way these thrilling stories unfold?'
With humor and camaraderie, we offer a glimpse into the minds behind your favorite crime stories and the vibrant, diverse voices shaping the future of the genre.
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This week I'm in conversation with bestselling author Russ Thomas , offering a glimpse into his juggling act of writing and balancing "proper" jobs to cover bills. Russ sheds light on the realities of publishing and the notorious "second book syndrome"—a struggle known to many authors. Listen in for tips on setting daily writing goals, the challenges of weaving complex themes, and why every book feels like a challenging yet rewarding child.
It's a candid look at the hurdles and triumphs faced by writers at all stages. chat uncovers the inherent drive to write, despite the struggle, the unexpected joy found in bookselling and Russ's latest book, in the DS Adam Tyler series, Sleeping Dogs.
Sleeping Dogs
THE LIES OF THE PAST . . .
When an anonymous tip lands on his desk, DS Adam Tyler is intrigued in spite of himself. The disappearance of a young mother twenty-four years ago was big news, but the case was never solved – this tantalizing new lead is something he simply can’t ignore. But the letter has set in motion a dangerous chain of events, and Tyler’s search for the truth soon leaves him fighting for his life.
. . . LIVE IN THE PRESENT
With Tyler out of action, DC Mina Rabbani must step up to lead the Cold Case Review Unit in his absence, retracing Tyler’s steps and uncovering his secrets to figure out what he was working on. But as she begins to put the pieces together, the case starts to hit frighteningly close to home. Without DS Tyler to protect her, Mina realizes that now she’s the one with hard choices to make.
And this time she’s on her own.
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What happens to the children who are left behind when their parents seek a new life in a distant land? This haunting question forms the heart of a conversation with author Anne Hawk, who joins us to share insights from her novel "Pages of The Sea". Together, we unravel the stories of the Windrush generation, focusing on the emotional complexities of family separation and reunion, with a personal lens drawn from our own Caribbean roots. As we reflect on these narratives, we emphasize the necessity of amplifying Black authors' voices, ensuring their stories resonate beyond the confines of Black History Month.
Anne's personal journey, marked by perseverance and unexpected twists, serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring writers. From navigating the redrafting process to the surprising turn of events leading to publication, her experience underscores the importance of self-belief and community support.
Pages of the Sea
After her mother sails from the Caribbean to England to find work, Wheeler is left with her two older sisters, three cousins and two aunts.She couldn’t feel more alone. She longs for her mother to send for her as promised. Everyone tells her to just wait. But for how long?
In the meantime, she has to learn to get along as best she can, exploring the island with Donelle, making kites with Bounce, following the carnival through the town. But most of all she must avoid the threat of her cousin Floyd.
Set during the mid-1960s on a Caribbean Island, issues of family, migration and abandonment hang over Wheeler and her unknowable future.
A story of sisterhood, family secrets, and the sacrifices of love. No novel comes as close to this heart-breaking evocation of what it’s like to be a child left behind.
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My conversation with author Louise Swanson takes a deep dive into the realm of storytelling and the realities of the writing industry. This episode is a candid testament to the financial realities faced by writers, the comfort that comes from having an agent, and the evolving definitions of success in an ever-changing industry.
Louise shares her insights and experiences, offering a mirror to anyone who wonders about perseverance in the absence of a book deal and the art of connecting authentically with readers. And of course we talk about Louise's new book, Lights Out.
Whether you're an emerging writer or a seasoned author, join us for an engaging discussion that promises to leave you inspired and equipped with insights to navigate the creative path ahead.
Lights Out
When darkness is everywhere, nowhere is safe...
A state of emergency has been declared in the UK. From now on, at 8pm every night, all electricity cuts out.
The Government promises it's a temporary measure. They promise they are always thinking of your safety.
But for Grace, the darkness is anything but safe.
Someone is coming into her house under its cover every night while she lies in bed upstairs, too terrified to sleep. Someone who knows her past, who knows why she has more reason to fear the dark than most...
And every morning she wakes to a new message from the intruder:
I have you in my sights. Love, The Night
But how can Grace escape, when there's nowhere safe left to hide?
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We welcome Elvin James Mensah, author of "Small Joys," into our conversation, where we unravel the complexities of pursuing a writing career without the traditional backing of family support. Elvin's insights into turning personal narratives into fiction reveal the delicate balance between family expectations and creative aspirations. Together, we share the universal struggle of finding one's voice in the face of cultural and familial pressures, and the comedic irony that comes when family members, once skeptical, become your biggest cheerleaders after you find success.
Our episode goes further to address the unpredictable nature of the publishing industry and the inevitable rejections writers face. Join us for a heartfelt discussion that promises both inspiration and camaraderie for writers and readers alike.
Small Joys
‘Could I one day inspire happiness in others, the same way he seemed to do in me?’
Harley is a young queer Black man struggling to find his way in mid-noughties Britain. Returning home to Dartford, having just dropped out of an undergraduate course in music journalism, he is wracked by feelings of failure and inadequacy. Standing in the local woods one day, on the verge of doing something drastic and irreversible, his hand is stayed by a stranger: a tall husky guy who emerges from the bushes holding a pair of binoculars.
Muddy is an ebullient Mancunian whose lust for his own life makes others feel better by association. A keen birdwatcher, rugby fanatic and Oasis obsessive, he quickly becomes a devoted and loyal friend to Harley who finds his enthusiasm infectious and his dimples irresistible. In no time at all, they become inseparable. Harley starts to think that life may be worth living after all, while Muddy discovers things about himself that the lads down the rugby club may struggle to understand.
But when figures from the past threaten to plunge Harley back into the depths of depression, his only hope of survival is Muddy and the small joys they create together.
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Ever wondered how authors navigate their identities, genres and maintaining a writing career? Join me in conversation with Harriet Evans, the Sunday Times best-selling author, renowned for her heartwarming family dramas like 'A Place for Us' who is stepping into new territory with her latest work. Under the pen name Harriet F. Townsend, she unveils a thrilling twist in her career with 'D is for Death', a captivating cozy crime murder mystery.
From the complexities of the murder mystery genre to the challenges of ghostwriting for celebrities, we cover it all.
D is for Death
1935. Dora's on the first train to London, having smuggled herself out of the house in the middle of the night to escape her impending marriage. But unluckily for her, Dora's fiance is more persistent than most and follows.
As Dora alights at Paddington station, she is immediately forced to run from the loathsome Charles Silk-Butters. She ducks into the London Library to hide and it is there, surrounded by books, where she should feel most safe, that Dora Wildwood stumbles across her first dead body.
Having been thrown into the middle of a murder scene, it's now impossible to walk away. Indeed, Dora's certain she will prove an invaluable help to the gruff Detective Inspector Fox who swiftly arrives on the scene. For as everyone knows, it's the woman in the room who always sees more than anyone else: and no one more so than Dora herself...
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Books are meant to be read, not banned! 10,000 books were banned in the last US academic year. Read the Guardian article and remember to buy a banned book and share it with a friend.Send us a text
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What does it take to transform from a humble bookseller into a Sunday Times best-selling author? Join me as I chat with B P Walter, who shares his extraordinary journey and the realities behind the success story.
B P Walter candidly opens up about the book industry’s often-hidden complexities, from navigating early rejections to understanding the crucial role of supermarkets in a book’s success. We recount both the thrill and the anxiety surrounding book launches, especially during the unprecedented times of the pandemic. Walter’s reflections on working in bookstores and the unique experiences that shaped his career provide an eye-opening look into the literary world’s inner workings.
Listeners will particularly enjoy hearing about B P Walter’s prolific year, with the release of three distinct books, including his latest novel, 'The Garden Party' and his foray into the horror genre with “Scuttle".
Scuttle
Your worst nightmare is about to come true…When an overnight camping trip in the woods on Halloween night goes wrong, and a girl ends up dead with what looks like animal wounds, the whole neighbourhood is shocked.
How did it happen?
And more importantly what was it that killed her?
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What if achieving literary success doesn't erase self-doubt? Best-selling author Amanda Prowse joins us to share her remarkable journey from the streets of East London to becoming the writer of 35 books. Despite her impressive accomplishments, Amanda opens up about her ongoing struggle with imposter syndrome, revealing how her working-class background and challenging education initially made her question her potential. Her story is a powerful reminder that perseverance and passion can break down even the most stubborn barriers.
Amanda and I explore the unexpected kindness within the publishing industry and the camaraderie that exists among authors. From the emotional depth of her new novel "Swimming to Lundy" to the humorous moments of discussing preferences for gravy on chips, Amanda's experiences offer a rich tapestry of insights into the writing process and personal growth. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a fan of her work, this conversation promises to inspire and uplift, proving that success is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
Swimming to Lundy
Tawrie Gunn feels stuck. She’s spent her whole life in the same seaside town with her beloved Nana and grief-stricken mum, all of them still reeling in different ways from the tragic loss of Tawrie’s dad at sea. Desperate for a change, she challenges herself to take up wild swimming—every morning, no excuses, from March till September.Daring to take the plunge with the ‘Peacock Swimmers’, Tawrie feels alive in a way she’s never known. Suddenly it seems she might be able to step outside her comfort zone after all and let life surprise her—perhaps even dream of a future beyond the shores of Ilfracombe? Especially when, one day, she spots a man in a pink linen shirt who seems as eager for a new start as she does.
But it turns out taking risks on land is a little different from wading into the sea. Can Tawrie face her fears head-on and find her way to happiness? She knows it’s never too late to pursue your hopes and dreams, but it might be easier said than done…
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*The Best of Season 2 of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson - Part 2*
This week, we're bringing you the best of my conversations with some of the most talented and celebrated authors in the industry. Join me as I sit down with award-winning and best-selling authors Femi Kayode (ep.41), Harriet Tyce (ep.62), Jo Callaghan (ep.68), Kellye Garrett (ep.71), Kia Abdullah (ep.36) and S.J. Watson (ep.64)
What if launching your debut novel during a global pandemic turned out to be a surreal rollercoaster ride? How do repeated rejections shape resilience and career decisions in the long run? We'll share personal stories that highlight the importance of persistence and the valuable lessons learned when goals are reassessed. Together, we’ll explore how these experiences ultimately pave the way for success, touching on the unexpected boosts from platforms like BBC2's "Between the Covers" and the transformative influence of BookTok in the modern publishing landscape.
We also discuss the pressures authors face in a rapidly evolving industry, the value of community support, the significance of celebrating small wins and how to manage unexpected success that is more than you could imagine.
Don't miss this engaging and insightful episode, showcasing the highlights of Season 2. Tune in and listen to the wisdom and experiences of these remarkable authors.
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*The Best of Season 2 of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson - Part 1*
This week, we're bringing you the best of my conversations with some of the most talented and celebrated authors in the industry. Join me as I sit down with award-winning and best-selling authors S.A. Cosby (ep.58), Tim Glister (ep.56), Dorothy Koomson (ep.54) , Derek Thompson (ep.38), Erin Kelly (ep.63) and Saima Mir (ep.74).
In this special episode, we dive deep into the world of writing, discussing everything from the sting of rejection to the art of creating unforgettable characters. We also cover the importance of book covers, the challenge of being pigeonholed as an author, and the realities of book deals and advances. You'll also hear about some of the most interesting (and sometimes unexpected) questions these authors have faced at book festivals.
Don't miss this engaging and insightful episode, showcasing the highlights of Season 2. Tune in and listen to the wisdom and experiences of these remarkable authors.
The Conversation with Nadine Matheson needs your support and it would be lovely if you bought me a cup of coffee on ko-fi.com
You can also support the podcast on Patreon.Send us a text
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee ☕️! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
Follow Me:
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What if you could turn the highs and lows of your writing journey into your most compelling material? Join Nadine Matheson in the season finale of the Conversation Podcast as she welcomes her mentor, award-winning author Sarah Hilary. Together, they unlock the secrets behind Sarah's bestselling book, "Someone Else’s Skin," and discuss the emotional rollercoaster of the publishing world. From the excitement of auctions to the challenges of balancing vulnerability with confidence, Sarah's story is one of grit and triumph.
Sarah and Nadine explore the crucial role of perseverance, the transformative power of storytelling, the heartfelt importance of preserving personal narratives and Sarah Hilary's new book, Sharp Glass.
Sharp Glass
The last thing she remembers is standing outside the empty house. One she was employed to pack, ready for removal. Her job is her life. It is her compulsion to take care of an owner’s precious possessions, to do whatever it takes to help them move on. Now she is cold, dirty, damp, trapped in its cellar with no chance of escape, miles from anywhere. His prisoner.
And then he returns.
Her captor believes she holds the answers to why a young girl was murdered a year ago. He refuses to let her go until she reveals her secrets. But he doesn’t know she has hidden depths, and an anger she works hard to control.
The battle lines are drawn. They are the only two people who can solve the mystery of the dead girl. But when the truth is revealed, whose life will shatter?
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"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee ☕️! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
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Follow Me:
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What happens when the fear of failure keeps you from pursuing your true passion? Leeanne O'Donnell opens up about her fascinating journey from documentary filmmaking and psychotherapy to finally embracing her dream of becoming a writer and the release of her debut novel, Sparks of Bright Matter.
We promise you'll gain insights into the struggles of overcoming perfectionism and the deeply personal nature of sharing creative work. Leanne's story covers her early ambitions, her diverse career path, and her reflections on deferring adulthood, all while providing invaluable lessons for anyone on their own creative journey.
Sparks of Bright Matter
When ambitious apprentice chemist and secret alchemist Peter Woulfe is tasked with caring for a mysterious illustrated book, the Mutus Liber, he quickly realises that the grimy underworld of Georgian London is even more dangerous than he first believed.
Soon the book is stolen by the light-fingered Sukie and Peter finds himself being pursued by threatening men who are willing to do anything to get the book back. Where in teeming London might Sukie be found? Why is Peter so enthralled by her? And what is it about the Mutus Liber that is so enticing? As the search for the book becomes an urgent game of cat and mouse, it seems that the key to Peter's present dilemma might only be found in half-remembered events from his childhood, and then further back still, in the mists of Irish myth.
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"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee ☕️! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
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Follow Me:
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BlueSky: @nadinematheson.bsky.social - Laat meer zien
