Afleveringen
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Author Lola Jaye joins me for a "Coffee Break" to talk about her new book "The Manual For Good Wives." This is the conversation that gave me the idea to launch the 'Coffee Break' series.
As well as talking about her novel, Lola Jaye talks about what it takes to succeed as an author when the publishing industry doesn't know "where to place someone like you"? "Maybe that was the problem," she reflects, "because I wasn't writing about civil wars in Africa." Instead, she crafted stories about grief, love, and family; human experiences that transcend race yet feature characters who look like her.
The Manual For Good Wives
Everything about Adeline Copplefield is a lie . . .
To the world Mrs Copplefield is the epitome of Victorian propriety: an exemplary society lady who writes a weekly column advising young ladies on how to be better wives.
Only Adeline has never been a good wife or mother; she has no claim to the Copplefield name, nor is she an English lady . . .
Now a black woman, born in Africa, who dared to pretend to be something she was not, is on trial in the English courts with all of London society baying for her blood. And she is ready to tell her story . . .Follow Lola Jaye
Lola Jaye is a critically acclaimed author & psychotherapist who has penned seven novels and a self-help book. She was born and raised in London, England and has lived in Nigeria and the United States.
Lola has a keen interest in Black history and bringing untold stories to life. In 2024 Lola appeared as an expert in a major two part Channel Four documentary entitled, âTitanic in Colour,â highlighting stor
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THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
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You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
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What happens when a solitary writer from the Alaskan wilderness suddenly finds herself thrust into international literary acclaim? Eowyn Ivey, Pulitzer Prize finalist and author of "Black Woods Blue Sky," joins me for a fascinating exploration of the creative journey that took her from newspaper reporter to celebrated novelist.
"I absolutely would not have believed it," Ivey confesses about her unexpected success. We dive deep into what she calls "the crying in the elevator stage", that overwhelming moment when achievement suddenly feels too big to process. Her candid reflections on cleaning out chicken coops shortly after becoming a Pulitzer finalist reveal how grounding in everyday realities helps navigate literary success.
Whether you're struggling with first drafts or navigating sudden success, this conversation illuminates the vulnerable, surprising path of the storyteller's journey.Black Woods Blue Sky
Birdie's keeping it together, of course she is. So she's a little hungover on her shifts, and has to bring her daughter to the lodge while she waits never tables, but it's a tough town to be a single mother, and Birdie just needs to get by.
And then Birdie meets Arthur, who is quieter than most men, but makes her want to listen; who is gentle with Emaleen, and understands Birdie's fascination with the mountains in whose shadow they live. When Arthur asks Birdie and Emaleen to leave the lodge and make a home, just the three of them, in his off-grid cabin, Birdie's answer, in a heartbeat, is yes.
Out in the wilderness Birdie's days are harsher and richer than she ever imagined possible. Here she will feel truly at one with nature. Here she, and EmaleeSend us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comBlueSky: @nadinematheson.com Substack: @nadinematheson Instagram: @queennads
Threads: @nadinematheson Facebook: nadinemathesonbooks
TikTok: @writer_nadinematheson -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this episode of "Coffee Break" Rod Reynolds joins me to talk about the return of Detective Casey Wray in his thrilling new novel "Shatter Creek".
Shatter Creek plunges readers into the chaos of a brazen triple homicide that shatters the relative calm of a Long Island town. When two victims are gunned down in broad daylight, police scramble to determine if they're facing a mass shooting. The discovery of a third body initially simplifies the case, pointing to a domestic dispute with an obvious suspect, but Casey's instincts tell her something's off.
Whether you're continuing the journey from "Black Reed Bay" or discovering Casey Wray for the first time, this novel stands as compelling evidence of why Reynolds continues to be one of crime fiction's most refreshing voices.Shatter Creek
Hampstead County Police Department is embroiled in scandal after corruption at the top of the force was exposed. Cleared of involvement and returned to active duty, Detective Sergeant Casey Wray nonetheless finds herself at a crossroads when it becomes clear not everyone believes sheâs innocent.
CORRUPTION
Partnered with rookie Billy Drocker, Casey works a shocking daytime double-homicide in downtown Rockport with the two victims seemingly unknown to one another. And when a third victim is gunned down on her doorstep shortly after, it appears an abusive ex-boyfriend holds the key to the killings.
MURDER
With powerful figures demanding answers, Casey and Billy search for the suspect, fearing heâs on a murderous rampage. But when a key witness goes missing, and new evidence just wonât fit,Send us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comBlueSky: @nadinematheson.com Substack: @nadinematheson Instagram: @queennads
Threads: @nadinematheson Facebook: nadinemathesonbooks
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What happens when the dream of becoming a published author collides with the harsh realities of the publishing industry? In this candid conversation, Sunday Times bestselling author Heidi Perks reveals the rollercoaster journey that began when she took redundancy in 2012 to pursue writing full-time while raising two small children.
Heidi doesn't hold back as she shares the gut-wrenching moment her first agent dropped her after multiple rejections from publishers, leaving her feeling like she was "back at square one."We talk about the surprising isolation of a writing career, the struggle to generate fresh ideas book after book, why finding your supportive tribe is crucial to survival in this industry and Heidi's new book, 'Somone Is Lying.'
Someone is Lying
How do you find your daughter when no one believes she is missing?
Single mother Jess and her daughter Issie have always shared an unbreakable bond. For the last seven years, it's been just the two of them.
That is, until Issie meets Dylan.
When the pair announce their plans to go travelling, Jess is devastated - Issie is only seventeen after all, and Jess doesnât trust her daughterâs new boyfriend.
And when she stops hearing from her altogether, she's terrified.
With Dylan refusing to talk, and the police unwilling to help, Jess is faced with a mother's worst nightmare.
Can she find her daughter before it's too late?Follow Heidi Perks
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THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
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"Nothing lasts forever," Emmy-nominated TV producer Remi Kone tells us, reflecting on one of life's most important lessons. It's this perspective that has guided her remarkable journey from working on shows like Killing Eve and Spooks to crafting her debut crime novel, "Innocent Guilt."
In this captivating conversation, we explore the fascinating parallels between hooking TV viewers across multiple episodes and capturing readers across chapters, with Remi sharing invaluable insights about character development that apply to both mediums. "It's the characters you love, not always the stories," she observes, explaining why readers become so invested in fictional lives that they message authors to debate character choices.
Perhaps most reassuring for aspiring writers is Remy's candor about the publishing process itself. From agent rejections that turned into valuable feedback to the surreal experience of seeing her words in print, she demystifies the journey with warmth and honesty.Innocent Guilt
Victim or murderer . . .
Can she discover the truth?
On a misty autumn afternoon, a woman covered in blood clutching a baseball bat walks silently into a London police station. The two officers assigned to her case are DI Leah Hutch and DS Benjamin Randle.
But the woman refuses to speak. She is not injured and the blood on the bat is not hers. What has she done? Is she the victim or the perpetrator? As Leah and Randle start their inquiry, a man is found battered to death in a nearby park. Journalist Odie Reid receives a tip off and is determined to solve the case first, trying to link this death to the woman held in custody.
LeSend us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comBlueSky: @nadinematheson.com Substack: @nadinematheson Instagram: @queennads
Threads: @nadinematheson Facebook: nadinemathesonbooks
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In this captivating conversation with bestselling author Amanda Jennings, we explore the unexpected path that led her from struggling architecture student to successful novelist. Amanda shares the pivotal moment when, as a young mother at 23, she found herself feeling creatively unfulfilled and turned to writing during her baby's naps, a decision that would ultimately launch her career.
Now seven books into her career, Amanda discusses her latest novel "Beautiful People" a dark, glamorous exploration of obsession set in dual timelines between university days and the present. She reflects on how her writing has evolved while remaining true to her love of exploring darkness, even when attempting romance ("I killed the heroine by page seven").
Whether you're an aspiring author seeking motivation to continue through rejection, a published writer navigating the industry's emotional landscape, or simply fascinated by creative journeys, this conversation offers wisdom, practical advice, and heartfelt encouragement.Beautiful People
When Victoria escapes her broken home for university in London, she is determined to reinvent herself and make a fresh start. She falls in love with Nick, who welcomes her into his privileged circle of friends, opening her eyes to a world she only ever dreamt of.
Then life takes a darker turn.
Twenty-five years later, the circle is reunited alongside a host of glittering guests to celebrate the wedding of Hollywood darling Ingrid Olsson to ruthlessly well-connected Julian Draper. Victoria has spent years trying to forget Nick and put the horror of what happened behind her. Now she has to face the past she tried so hard to bury.
As
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THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comBlueSky: @nadinematheson.com Substack: @nadinematheson Instagram: @queennads
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Ever wondered what happens when you break the unspoken rules of marriage? Nadine Matheson launches an exciting new segment called "Coffee Breaks" â 20-minute conversations with authors about their latest works that feel as intimate and refreshing as catching up with friends over coffee.
In this debut Coffee Break episode, psychological thriller author Helen Monks-Takhar discusses her chilling new release "The Marriage Rule." The premise hooks you immediately: what happens when a woman wakes up disoriented in a hotel room next to a dead man, who isn't even her lover? Helen reveals how she crafted this dual-timeline narrative that explores both the immediate mystery and the events leading to this shocking moment.
The episode closes with Helen's passionate call for more open conversations about normalised violence against women, challenging the victim-blaming question "Why did you stay?" through her character Elle's journey. Her hope that readers will not only be entertained but also prompted to reflect makes this thriller's purpose clear, to entertain while illuminating difficult truths.
Starting in Season 4, Coffee Breaks will become a regular feature, including listener questions for authors. Send your burning questions to [email protected] to have them answered in future episodes!The Marriage Rule
Whatâs the one thing you need to do to stay married?
Elle never dreamed sheâd end up with a man like Dom. Heâs handsome, successful, the perfect father to their baby girl.
But Elle doesnât feel the joy she knows she should. She's struggling with being a mum, failing at work, even her post-baby body doesnât f
Send us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comBlueSky: @nadinematheson.com Substack: @nadinematheson Instagram: @queennads
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What would you sacrifice to pursue your truest creative calling? For Elaine Garvey, the answer spans decades of her life, multiple career shifts, and countless moments of self-doubt.
The Financial Times has already hailed her debut novel "The Wardrobe Department" as the "Best Debut of 2025," but this recognition comes after a twenty-year journey filled with rejections, financial insecurity, and unwavering determination. "If I came home and said to family, I want to be a writer," Garvey laughs, "you might as well say I want to be a horse."
This conversation between two passionate writers crackles with authenticity as they explore the hidden realities of creative pursuits. Garvey opens up about the profound financial barriers that keep many working-class voices out of publishing, revealing how she deliberately stepped down from a promotion to create mental space for her writing.
Whether you're a creative struggling to find your place, someone fascinated by the hidden dynamics of theatrical workplaces, or simply curious about how stories come to life, this conversation offers both practical wisdom and emotional sustenance. Discover why, despite all obstacles, Garvey believes that "if all the world fell away, we would still be doing this."The Wardrobe Department
MairĂŠad works all hours in a run-down West End theatre's wardrobe department, her whole existence made up of threads and needles, running errands to mend shoes, fixing broken zips and handwashing underwear. She must also do her best to avoid groping hands backstage and the terrible bullying of the show's producer.
But, despite her skill and growing experience, half of MairĂŠad remains in her windy, heSend us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comBlueSky: @nadinematheson.com Substack: @nadinematheson Instagram: @queennads
Threads: @nadinematheson Facebook: nadinemathesonbooks
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What does it really take to succeed as an author in today's publishing landscape? Bestselling writer John Marrs doesn't hold back in this refreshingly candid conversation about the realities behind his thirteen-book career journey.
From writing his first five books on trains and during lunch breaks to receiving 80 rejections (some with just "NO" written in red marker), John Marrs demolishes the myth of overnight success and the perfect writing environment. His path from self-publishing to having "The One" adapted for Netflix reveals both the highs and unexpected challenges of reaching a wider audience.
With remarkable honesty, John Marrs discusses the business decisions that shaped his career, including his transition from speculative fiction to psychological thrillers because "you've got to go where the money is." He explains why he still doesn't have a literary agent despite his success, how he approaches marketing and social media promotion, why he prefers Instagram over public appearances and his new novel, You Killed Me First.You Killed Me First
Three women. Three smouldering secrets. Who will make it out alive?
Itâs 5 November, and a woman awakens to a nightmare. Bound and gagged, she lies trapped in the heart of a towering bonfire. As the smoke thickens, panic sets in â sheâs moments away from being engulfed in flames. How did it come to this?
Rewind eleven months: Margot, a faded TV star, and her long-suffering friend Anna watch as glamorous Liv and her flawless family move into their street. The three women soon fabricate the perfect pretence of friendship, but each harbours her own dea
Send us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
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We all have dreams we've postponed and creative passions set aside while we handle life's practicalities. Award winning author Elissa Soave knows this struggle intimately. Having started law school at just 16, she spent decades in a profession that never quite felt right before finally pursuing her writing dreams in her mid-40s.
"Anybody can say 'not yet, not yet' but at some point you have to say no, I'm actually now going to prioritise what I like to do with my time," Elisa shares in our candid conversation about her journey from law to literature. This powerful sentiment forms the emotional core of our discussion about her new novel "Graffiti Girls" which follows four middle-aged women who decide to break the law by spray-painting feminist messages across their small Scottish town.Elissa also reflects on representation, deliberately centering working-class characters from small towns because "they are not represented enough in literature." For anyone who's ever thought "someday I'll follow my passion," this episode serves as both inspiration and gentle challenge. Your time is finite. What brings you joy?
Graffiti Girls
Follow Elissa Soave
đłď¸Vote for my book 'The Kill List' to be on the Theakstonâs Old Peculiar Crime Novel of the Year shortlist!
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THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
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In this illuminating conversation with crime author Marnie Riches, we dive deep into the unpredictable world of professional writing and publishing. With remarkable candor, Marnie shares the rollercoaster journey that's taken her from writing children's books under a pseudonym to becoming an award-winning crime novelist with 22 publications to her name.
"Writers are gamblers," Marnie reveals early in our discussion. "Even on days where we don't love writing because it is a grind, there's always the gambler in us thinking next time, next time, the next spin of the wheel." This gambling analogy perfectly captures the persistent hope that keeps authors going through rejection, disappointment, and the countless variables beyond their control.
Our conversation takes fascinating turns as we discuss the politics of book covers, the challenges of switching genres, and how class background shapes risk-taking in creative careers and her latest novel, "The Gardeners Club," a cozy crime mystery that represents yet another pivot in her versatile career.The Gardeners Club
Gardening is dirty work â but should it be deadly?
When Gill Swanley decides to take up gardening to fight a midlife malaise, she never expected it to become quite such a dangerous hobby.
Pushing herself to 'get out there', Gill picks herself up the secateurs and joins the Bromley Botanists. Here she finds a seven-strong group whose main agenda is how to win the coveted Golden Trowel for best community club of the year.
But when a dead body turns up in the community greenhouse, they suddenly have more serious matters to consider than victory. They must uncover whether their arch-rivals, CroydSend us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
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What makes the difference between a forgettable story and one that lingers in your mind long after you've turned the final page? Best-selling author and playwright Greg Mosse reveals the secret early in our conversation: "Boring books are finished by their writers, and good books are completed by their readers, because there's space for the reader's imagination within the story."
This philosophy of collaborative storytelling runs throughout our conversation as Greg shares his remarkable journey from contemplating army life to becoming an acclaimed writer of both cozy mysteries (The Maisie Cooper Mystery Series) and futuristic thrillers (The Alex Lamarque Thriller Series). We also talk about creating authentic characters across different genres and his new novels, The Coming Fire and Murder at the Wedding.
Whether you're an aspiring writer seeking craft advice, a reader curious about how your favorite stories come to life, or simply someone who appreciates thoughtful conversation about creativity and identity, this episode offers warmth, wisdom, and a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a versatile storyteller.The Coming Fire
First came the darkness.
Then the storm.
Now Alex has no choice: it's time to face the fire.Following a fighter jet crash in the Haitian hinterland, special agent Alex Lamarque is taken captive by a violent, drug-addled gang, the only authority in this lawless territory.
Unknown to Alex, his lover Mariam Jordane has escaped the
Send us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
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What happens after you get that coveted book deal?
Award-winning author Tariq Ashkanani pulls back the curtain on the publishing industry with refreshing honesty, revealing the unexpected challenges and disappointments that come after signing with an agent. From the marketing struggles that leave authors shouting into the void to the strange disconnect between publicity budgets and actual book sales, Tariq and Nadine explore the parts of the writer's journey rarely discussed in public.
But this conversation goes deeper than industry talk. Tariq shares the creative spark behind his deliciously dark new thriller The Midnight King, revealing how he crafts villains with psychological depth and finds those perfect "pockets of darkness" within everyday normality.For readers of The Midnight King, crime fiction enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the realities of creative careers, this conversation offers both practical wisdom, laughs and the encouragement to trust your creative instincts.
The Midnight King
'This is a work of fiction. This is not a confession.' Lucas Cole is a bestselling writer. He is also a father, a widower, and a beloved celebrity in his small town. He is an unassuming man Â- tall, thin and quietly friendly. Lucas Cole is also a serial killer.
Nathan Cole has known the truth about his father since he was ten years old. Too terrified to go to the police, he ran away from home as soon as he was able, carrying the guilt of leaving his sister behind. But when Lucas is found dead in a dingy motel room, Nathan returns to his childhood home for the first time in seventeen years. It's there he finds The Midnight King, his father's
Send us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comBlueSky: @nadinematheson.com Substack: @nadinematheson Instagram: @queennads
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What makes a truly compelling story? In this deeply insightful episode, I sit down with Alex Hay, author of the award-winning "The Housekeepers" and the newly released "The Queen of Fives," to explore the psychology behind writing con artists and morally complex characters. From learning how to pitch effectively to understanding the complex retail landscape that determines a book's success, he offers rare insights into the business side of creativity.
Whether you're a writer seeking inspiration, a reader curious about the creative process, or simply drawn to stories of persistence and resilience, this conversation offers something deeply meaningful. Listen now to discover why Alex believes the best writing comes from mining your own imagination and pursuing what truly lights you up as a storyteller.
The Queen of Fives
They whisper her name in every corner of town. The lady with a hundred faces, a thousand lives.
Five moves, five days - for such are the rules of her game.
1898. Quinn Le Blanc, London's most talented con woman, has five days to pull off the seemingly impossible: trick an eligible duke into marriage and lift a fortune from the richest family in England.
Masquerading as a wealthy debutante, Quinn is the jewel of the season. Her brilliant act opens doors to the grand drawing rooms and lavish balls of high society - and propels her into the inner circle of her target: the corrupt, charismatic Kendals.
But as she spins in and out of their world, Quinn becomes tangled in a dangerous web of love, lies and loyalty. The Kendal family all have secrets of their own, and she may nSend us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
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What happens when you realise your life's potential extends far beyond your current path? Multi-award winning luxury business strategist and author Elizabeth Solaru faced this exact moment while working as a microbiologist, sparked by a mundane conversation about courgettes that made her question everything. Her remarkable journey from laboratory technician to luxury cake artist serving royalty demonstrates how recognising your untapped potential can transform your entire existence. With unflinching honesty, Elizabeth reveals the pivotal moments that shaped her career trajectory, from resigning without a backup plan to cold-calling her way into elite circles with nothing but determination and ÂŁ40 in the bank.
Elizabeth tells her story and gives advice in her new book, The LUXpreneur. Whether you're considering a career pivot, starting a business, or simply feeling that there should be more to your professional life, Elizabeth's journey offers both practical wisdom and the permission to believe in possibilities beyond your current circumstances. What potential within you is waiting to be unleashed?Check out her stunning luxury cakesđ
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The LUXPreneur: How To Build A Luxury Brand
The LUXPreneur: How to Start and Build a Successful Luxury Brand offers a comprehensive exploration into the world of luxury entrepreneurship. Authored by Elizabeth Solaru, this book addresses the pivotal question: "How do I find affluent clients?" Drawing on two decades of experience in catering to high-end clientele globally, Solaru provides an in-depth analysis of luxury entrepreneurship and client psychology.
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THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
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What does it really take to survive as a professional author? In this refreshingly honest conversation, bestselling and award winning Maz Evans of 'Who Let the Gods Out' and I pull back the curtain on the realities of writing for a living.
"We aren't writers floating around in scarves," Maz declares with her characteristic wit. "We're business people running a business." This sentiment sets the tone for a discussion that reveals the genuine struggle behind the glamorous facade of publishing success. From the physical toll of deadline weeks (surviving on Uber Eats and forsaking personal grooming) to the mental exhaustion that accompanies creating a 100,000-word manuscript, both authors share their unfiltered experiences. Yet despite the challenges, Maz Evan's passion for storytelling remains undimmed. Maz shares details about her new comedy crime novel "That'll Teach You".
For anyone who loves books or dreams of writing them, this conversation offers valuable perspective on what sustains authors through rejection, financial uncertainty, and creative doubt. As Maz perfectly summarizes: "The biggest success is staying in the game."That'll Teach Her
A headmistress is dead. The circumstances are suspicious.
And as every parent knows, being on the school group chat can be murder...
As educators go, Claudia Stitchwell makes Miss Hannigan look like Miss Honey.
But when the reviled headteacher drops dead in the school hall, a group of sceptical parents suspect the nut allergy explanation doesn't add up - they believe someone wanted to teach Miss Stitchwell a lesson.
Only foSend us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comBlueSky: @nadinematheson.com Substack: @nadinematheson Instagram: @queennads
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What happens when the voice of a character is so powerful it shatters years of self-doubt? Finnish author Maarta Kaukonen never thought she could write a novel until the night she heard her protagonist Ida, a 20-year-old serial killer, speak to her so clearly that she had to get up and record the words. This moment transformed everything for Kokkonen, who struggled with learning disabilities as a child and spent years believing becoming an author was impossible.
In this captivating conversation, Maarta and I explore how the limiting stories we tell ourselves can prevent us from pursuing our dreams, and how sometimes the right catalyst can break through those barriers. Maarta Kaukonen's journey from film critic to internationally published author (her debut "Follow the Butterfly" has now sold in 15 countries and been optioned for television) demonstrates that creative paths rarely follow straight lines.Follow The Butterfly
Can she cure a killer?
Renowned therapist Clarissa Virtanen isn't afraid to explore the darkest side of humanity. Haunted by the death of a young patient, she will do whatever it takes to save the most vulnerable.
But when Ida - angry, damaged and seemingly suicidal - walks into her office, Clarissa may have met her match. For Ida has secrets. Murderous secrets, which mark her like a bloodstain.
Somehow, Clarissa must find the key to unlock Ida's past. So she makes a bargain with her - six months to stop Ida taking her own life. But what if she has entered a game more deadly, and more evil, than she could ever imagine?
Send us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comBlueSky: @nadinematheson.com Substack: @nadinematheson Instagram: @queennads
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In this captivating episode, Mari Hannah, a bestselling author and former probation officer, takes us on a journey through her unique path to success in the literary world. She reveals how her earlier career as a probation officer, has deeply influenced her storytelling, allowing her to craft authentic narratives that resonate with readers. With her sixteenth book, 'Her Sister's Killer', Mari delves into the emotional challenges of character development, the significance of prologues, and the intricate relationship between writing and real-life experiences.
Join us as we explore the ups and downs of her publishing journey, including personal anecdotes that highlight both the triumphs and struggles she faced along the way. Mari Hannah shares her perspective on the ever-evolving crime fiction landscape, emphasising the importance of resilience and a strong belief in oneself while navigating the complexities of the publishing industry.
Whether youâre a budding writer or a devoted reader, there's something for everyone in this engaging conversation. Remember to subscribe and join our community for more inspiring conversations.Her Sisters Killer
What brings people together often throws them apart, especially when it involves family. Newly promoted Inspector Frankie Oliver has been consumed by rooting out her sister's killer and bringing them to justice. But when new evidence comes to light, and her former boss DCI David Stone embarks on an investigation into the tragic unsolved murder without her knowledge, the ties that bind them begin to fray.
After decades without answers, who knows where the trail might lead? And will knowing the answers be the very thing that breaks Frankie irreparably?Send us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comBlueSky: @nadinematheson.com Substack: @nadinematheson Instagram: @queennads
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Dive into the fascinating world of espionage and writing with David Goodman, author of "A Reluctant Spy". Our conversation reveals David's enlightening journey from aspiring writer to published author, shedding light on the intricacies of crafting a compelling spy thriller in today's publishing landscape. David shares candid stories about navigating the complexities of rejection and persistent self-doubt, all while maintaining a passion for storytelling.
The episode is rich with practical insights for emerging authors, emphasising the importance of resilience and genuine creativity in the writing profession. Discover the allure of spy fiction and the endless learning opportunities within the publishing world by tuning in to this insightful discussion. Join us to be inspired, motivated, and equipped with actionable tips to help you on your writing journey. Donât forget to subscribe, share and leave a review to support the podcast and engage in this vibrant literary community.A Reluctant Spy
Jamie Tulloch is a successful exec at a top tech company, a long way from the tough upbringing that drove him to rise so far and so quickly.
But he has a secret...since the age of 23, he's had a helping hand from the Legend Programme, a secret intelligence effort to prepare impenetrable backstories for undercover agents. Real people, living real lives, willing to hand over their identities for a few weeks in return for a helping hand with plum jobs, influence and access.
When his tap on the shoulder finally comes, it's swiftly followed by the thud of a body. Arriving at a French airport ready to hand over his identity, Jamie finds his primary contact dead, the agent who's supposed to step into his life AWOL and his options for escape non-existent.
Pitched into a deadlSend us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comBlueSky: @nadinematheson.com Substack: @nadinematheson Instagram: @queennads
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What happens when a penniless writer from the 90s transforms into a celebrated author who masters the art of storytelling across genres? Josie Lloyd joins us to unravel her fascinating journey, from enjoying the wild ride of early media appearances to battling personal challenges that fuelled her creative spirit. With Josie by our side, we explore the ins and outs of the literary world, including the unexpected hilarity of public engagements and the solitary comfort of writing. We share laughs over leopard print boots and intriguing insights into the dynamics of writer partnerships that have shaped her successful career.
Josie and I also take a closer look at the shifting landscape of the publishing industry, the inspiration behind "Miss Beeton's Murder Agency," and we reminisce about the nostalgic charm of mixtapes and celebrate authentic portrayals of vibrant midlife women.Miss Beeton's Murder Agency
Alice Beeton never anticipated finding herself single and childless past fifty.
A distant relative of the famous Mrs Beeton, Alice had once envisioned a perfect household of her own. Instead, she resides in her pristine flat in a rather shabby Kensington block, with Agatha, her brilliant, if overly protective, corgi-Jack Russell mix.
Alice runs the Good Housekeeping Management Agency, supplying discreet domestic staff to luxurious townhouses and grand country estates. When Camille Messent urgently needs a new housekeeper, Alice sends Enya, a bold young woman with stellar references and fluency in French.
But Alice's quiet New Year's Day is shattered when news breaks that Enya has been found dead. With the scruffy but intriguing Detective Rigby struggling to conduct a proper investigation, and the wealthy family closing ranks, Mi
Send us a text
THE HIGH-EARNING WOMEN PODCAST
This podcast empowers high-earning women to make informed financial decisions and thrive.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee âď¸! Every contribution helps keep the show going.
https://ko-fi.com/nadinematheson
Don't forget to subscribe, download and review.
You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, youâll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Follow Me:
www.nadinematheson.comBlueSky: @nadinematheson.com Substack: @nadinematheson Instagram: @queennads
Threads: @nadinematheson Facebook: nadinemathesonbooks
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