The Conversation with Nadine Matheson

This week on The Conversation, I'm delighted to welcome the talented Claire McGowan, author of the gripping new novel, The Other Couple. Join us as we delve into Claire's journey as a writer, reflecting on her evolution from a young storyteller in rural Ireland to a successful author with 28 published works.In our conversation, Claire shares her experiences of the writing process, the challenges of navigating the publishing industry, and the importance of understanding genre. We discuss the nuances of writing crime fiction versus romantic comedy, and how her personal life influences her storytelling. Claire opens up about her recent diagnosis of autism and how it has reshaped her perspective on her writing and characters.We also explore the themes of her latest book, set against the backdrop of a luxury resort where a murder investigation unfolds. Claire's insights into the psychological complexities of her characters and the societal issues reflected in her work are both thought-provoking and inspiring.Follow Claire McGowanBuy The Other CoupleSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Conversation, I'm excited to welcome the incredible Anna Caig, author of the captivating debut novel, The Wise Witch of Orkney. Join us as we dive into Anna's journey from aspiring writer to published author, reflecting on the pivotal moments that led her to this milestone.Anna shares her experiences of the writing process, the challenges of historical fiction, and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. We explore the fascinating character of Elspet Balfour, a wise woman navigating the treacherous waters of 16th-century Scotland, as well as the historical context of witchcraft that inspired her narrative.Anna's passion for her craft shines through as she recounts the surreal experience of holding her book for the first time and the emotional rollercoaster of bringing her characters to life. We also touch on the significance of female friendships in her writing and the responsibility she feels to honor the voices of women from the past.Follow Anna CaigBuy The Wise Witch of OrkneyAnna's Recommendation: Small ProphetsSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Conversation, I'm thrilled to welcome the dynamic duo, Jo Dinkin and Catherine Brinkworth, also known as J.D. Brinkworth, the creative minds behind the delightful new cosy mystery, The Pie and Mash Detective Agency. Join us as we explore their unique writing partnership and the intricate process of bringing their characters to life.In our chat, Jo and Catherine share insights into their collaborative writing journey, discussing how they navigate the challenges of co-authoring while maintaining a unified voice. We dive into the importance of plotting, their approach to character development, and the joys of writing a cozy mystery set against the charming backdrop of Kent.We also touch on their experiences with the publishing process, the thrill of seeing their book come to life, and the role of humour in their storytelling. Plus, get ready for some fun anecdotes about their research adventures, including a murder mystery weekend that inspired their book!Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with laughter, writing tips, and a peek into the world of cozy crime. Jo and Catherine's chemistry and passion for storytelling are sure to inspire aspiring writers and mystery lovers alike!Follow JD BrinkworthBuy The Pie and Mash Detective AgencySupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining me for a coffee break is Sunday Times Bestselling author, the talented Harriet Tyce, author of the captivating new novel, 'Witch Trial'. We delve into the inspiration behind 'Witch Trial', set in Edinburgh, which follows a heart surgeon juror navigating a murder trial involving two teenage girls accused of witchcraft. Harriet discusses the unique blend of research and creativity that shaped her narrative, including her deep dive into jury psychology and the historical context of witchcraft.Throughout our conversation, Harriet opens up about the emotional challenges of writing, particularly the impact of bullying and ostracism on her characters. We explore the dynamics of storytelling, the importance of character development, and how her experience on the reality show The Traitors has influenced her writing process.Join us for an engaging discussion filled with insights into the craft of writing, the complexities of human relationships, and the power of storytelling. Don't miss Harriet's insightful take on the balance between humor and darkness in literature!Follow Harriet TyceBuy 'Witch Trial'Harriet Tyce's Recommendations:📚 Book: Fallen Sisters by Louise Hare 📺 Show: Culinary Class Wars on NetflixSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Conversation, I'm joined by the talented author Nina Bhadreshwar, whose latest novel, The Day of the Roaring, dives deep into the complexities of identity, resilience, and the stark realities faced by urban youth. We discuss Nina's incredible journey from Barnsley to California, her experiences in the publishing industry, creating her own magazine and the challenges of being an underrepresented voice in literature.Nina shares her candid thoughts on the importance of maintaining integrity in storytelling and the significance of crafting authentic characters. We explore the struggles she faced while writing her debut and the lessons learned from navigating the intricacies of the publishing world. With humor and honesty, she reflects on the need for a resilient nervous system in the arts and the transformative power of embracing one's unique voice.Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights the beauty of creativity and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. Don't miss out on Nina's insightful perspectives and her exciting new release!Follow Nina Bhadreshwar Buy The Day of the Roaring📗OUT NOW 'THE SHADOW CARVER' - Inspector Anjelica Henley Book 4Support the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining me for a coffee break is debut author, M.K. Oliver who shares the inspiration behind his unique protagonist, Lala Rook, a stylish North London mother with sociopathic tendencies, navigating the complexities of family life while employing unconventional methods to achieve her goals in 'A Sociopath's Guide to a Successful Marriage'.Join us as we explore Oliver's creative process, from the initial spark of an idea to the challenges of writing in a first-person female voice. He reflects on the importance of character development and how Lala's unexpected actions continually surprised him throughout the writing journey. We discuss the balance between humor and darkness in storytelling, as well as the significance of empowering readers to embrace their individuality.Oliver also opens up about the transition from teaching to writing full-time, the joys and challenges of the publishing world, and the thrill of receiving his proof and final copies. With insights into the writing process and the importance of community among writers, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the art of storytelling.Don't miss out on M.K. Oliver's debut novel, A Sociopath's Guide to Successful Marriage, and stay tuned for more from this exciting new voice in fiction!Follow M.K. OliverBuy 'A Sociopath's Guide to a Successful Marriage' Support the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

📗Buy 'THE SHADOW CARVER' - Inspector Anjelica Henley Book 4Amazon | Waterstones | Bookshop.Org | Barnes & Noble | Indigo-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------I am thrilled to welcome Sunday Times Bestselling Author Jennie Godfrey, author of the 'The List of Suspicious Things' and her new book, 'The Barbecue At No. 9' to 'The Conversation'. Jennie shares her inspiring journey from a corporate HR director, redundancy, bookseller to a bestselling author, revealing the pivotal moments that shaped her path, including the impact of the pandemic on her writing career.During our candid conversation, Jennie Godfrey opens up about the challenges of following up her debut novel, List of Suspicious Things, and the pressure of second book syndrome. We dive deep into her creative process, discussing the importance of reading widely, the role of music in her writing, and how she navigates the complexities of storytelling while staying true to real-life events.Jennie also shares her thoughts on the transformative power of sobriety and how it has influenced her writing journey. With humor and honesty, she reflects on the lessons learned from her experiences, emphasising the significance of taking breaks and prioritizing mental health in the fast-paced world of publishing.Join us for an enlightening discussion that highlights the beauty of creativity, the importance of resilience, and the joy of storytelling.Buy 'The Barbecue at No.9' and 'The List of Suspicious Things'Follow Jennie Godfrey Support the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I'm joined by K. Anis Ahmed. Anis shares his compelling journey through the world of writing, reflecting on both the triumphs and challenges he faced along the way. From his early days as an aspiring writer to navigating the complexities of the publishing industry, K. Anis Ahmed offers valuable insights that resonate with both seasoned authors and those just starting out.During our engaging conversation, K. Anis Ahmed recounts the harsh realities of receiving critical feedback on his work, the emotional toll it took, and how it ultimately shaped his resilience as a writer. He emphasises the importance of building a supportive network and seeking constructive criticism, highlighting that rejection is often a stepping stone to growth and improvement. K. Anis Anmed also shares his thoughts on the significance of finding one's writing voice and the value of perseverance in the face of adversity.We delve into his latest novel, Carnivore, which explores the life of a migrant in New York City, blending themes of ambition, identity, and moral dilemmas. Anis's unique perspective on storytelling and his ability to create relatable characters make this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the art of writing and the complexities of the human experience.Buy CarnivoreHardback | Pre-Order Paperback (26.03.26)Support the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to 'The Conversation Coffee Break with Nadine Matheson'. Today, we're taking a break with the insightful Philippa Found, author of the thought-provoking book, It's Complicated: Collected Confessions of Messy Modern Love. Philippa shares her journey of collecting 250 anonymous confessions that delve into the complexities of modern relationships, from dating to breakups and everything in between.Throughout our engaging conversation, Philippa reflects on the importance of creating a judgment-free space for people to share their stories, especially during the isolating times of lockdown. She discusses how her project began as an art initiative and evolved into a powerful collection that resonates with readers on a deep, emotional level. We explore the nuances of love, the struggles of self-acceptance, and the impact of societal expectations on our personal narratives.Join us as we uncover the layers of Philippa's work, her motivations behind the book, and the profound connections readers have made with the stories shared within its pages. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the messy, beautiful reality of love in all its forms.Follow Philippa FoundBuy It's ComplicatedSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we welcome the multifaceted Ivy Ngeow a talented author, architect, and interior designer. Ivy shares her unique journey as a creative, exploring how her background in design influences her writing process. She discusses how storytelling has always been a part of her life, from entertaining her younger brothers with imaginative tales to challenging the narratives found in literature.As Ivy delves into her experiences, she reflects on the struggles of finding her voice as a writer and the importance of perseverance in the face of rejection. With over 80 rejections for her first book, she emphasizes the significance of resilience and the need to view each piece of writing as a separate entity, much like a cake that evolves over time.Join us as we explore Ivy's latest novel, In Safe Hands, a gripping psychological thriller that tackles themes of identity and the complexities of modern life. Ivy's candid insights and relatable anecdotes make this episode a treasure trove of inspiration for aspiring writers and fans of literary fiction alike.Follow Ivy NiaBuy In Safe HandsSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we welcome the talented author Viola van de Sandt, who shares her journey from aspiring storyteller to published novelist. Viola discusses her debut novel, The Dinner Party, a captivating exploration of identity, self-discovery, and the chaos of a dinner party gone awry.In this engaging conversation, Viola reflects on her early days of storytelling, the challenges of writing in a fragmented structure, and the emotional rollercoaster of navigating the publishing world. She shares her thoughts on the importance of perseverance in the face of rejection and the significance of finding the right support system in her writing journey. Viola's candid insights into her creative process and her experiences with imposter syndrome resonate deeply with anyone pursuing a creative path.Join us as we delve into the complexities of character development, the nuances of storytelling, and the joy of writing that connects us all. This episode is a treasure trove of inspiration for aspiring authors and fans of literary fiction alike.Follow Viola van de SandtBuy The Dinner PartySupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch as a full video on YouTubeWe're back! On this week's episode, we discuss the show everyone is talking about - The Traitors! With crime author Harriet Tyce's appearance, we chat about the impact it has had on her book sales, and also wonder which reality show we would choose to go on to boost our publicity (there is also some spoiler discussion about this season of the UK Traitors, so be careful if you are not up-to-date!)Plus, we talk about big money's interest in Romantasy, and whether that will crowd out the market for other genres, and also discuss the rapid rise of scam marketing emails that are being sent to authors thanks to AI…00:00 Intro01:34 Dollars & Dragons - Is Big Money Skewing Fiction?16:52 The Flattery Trap - Predatory Promo Offers27:30 Killer Marketing? - The Traitors Effect44:14 Off Script - Nadine finds another stranger than fiction story for inspiration49:33 Off Script - Final Chapter: What we've been watching and readingLinks:Chernin Group invests in Romantasy publisher EntangledAuthors hit with deluge of scam emails from fake marketersWhy crime writers make good Traitors contestantsAdventures in Publishing-land is brought to you by STET Podcasts - the one stop shop for all your writing podcast needs, featuring Page One - The Writer's Podcast, The Conversation with Nadine Matheson and more!Follow us on BlueskyFollow us on InstagramSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The start of the New Year means the a brand new series of the hit show 'The Traitors' which means that we're reloading one of our most captivating discussions with the talented Sunday Times Bestselling author and 'Faithful' Harriet Tyce. Harriet shares her journey from barrister to bestselling crime author, highlighting her latest release, A Lesson in Cruelty.In this insightful conversation, Harriet delves into the complexities of writing unlikable characters, the judgments faced by authors, and how her experiences in law have shaped her storytelling. We discuss the challenges of navigating the publishing world, the impact of rejection, and the importance of resilience in both writing and life. Harriet's candid reflections on creativity and the struggles of balancing success with personal challenges make this episode a must-listen for aspiring authors and fans of crime fiction alike.Join us as we explore the nuances of character development, the unpredictability of publishing, and the joy of writing that brings Harriet back to life. This episode is a rich tapestry of inspiration and insight, perfect for anyone passionate about storytelling.AND THERE'S MORENext month Harriet Tyce will be joining Nadine Matheson for a Coffee Break to talk about her brand new book, Witch Trial and you will have the opportunity to put your questions to Harriet. Send your questions to theconversation@nadinematheson.com or leave a DM on any of our social media channels.Follow Harriet TycePre-Order 'Witch Trial'Buy A Lesson in CrueltySupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we are joined by the brilliant author Lucie Whitehouse. As we navigate through the complexities of writing, Lucy shares her journey from aspiring writer to published author, discussing her latest book, Last Witness, the third in her captivating series featuring Robin Lyons.Lucy opens up about the challenges of writing while living abroad, the emotional connection to her characters, and how personal experiences shape her storytelling. We explore the impact of societal issues on her work, particularly in the current political climate, and how her characters reflect the complexities of the world around us. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Lucy emphasizes the importance of authenticity in writing and the struggle of overcoming self-doubt as an author.This episode is a rich exploration of creativity, resilience, and the power of words, providing inspiration for both writers and readers alike. Lucy's insights into the writing process and her personal anecdotes will resonate deeply with anyone who has ever embarked on a creative journey.Follow Lucie WhitehouseBuy Last WitnessSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our first episode of 2026 we are joined by the incredible author Adele Parks, as we explore her journey through the literary world and the release of her 25th novel, Our Beautiful Mess. Adele shares her experiences of storytelling from a young age, the challenges she faced in her career, and the evolution of her writing style from romantic comedies to psychological thrillers.We delve into the significance of connection, both in her personal life and through her characters, as well as the importance of maintaining a voice in a competitive industry. Adele reflects on the lessons learned from grief, her journey as a writer, and how she balances the demands of her career with the joys of life, especially during the festive season.This episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, creativity, and the power of storytelling. Listeners will be inspired by Adele’s candid insights and her commitment to her craft, making it the perfect start to the year.Follow Adele ParksBuy Our Beautiful Mess HardbackPaperback (pre-order: 12 March 2026)Support the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm joined by the insightful and talented author Juhea Kim. With a remarkable journey from underdog to acclaimed writer, Juhea shares her experiences navigating the publishing world, including the challenges of facing racism and sexism, her new book, A love story from the end of the world, and the importance of advocating for oneself as an artist.Juhea opens up about her transition from being an editor to a published author, detailing the struggles of balancing her passion for writing with the realities of financial instability. She candidly discusses the impact of societal expectations on her career and the lessons learned about integrity within the publishing industry. Listeners will be captivated by Juhay's reflections on creativity, how ballet influenced her storytelling, the importance of authenticity, and the necessity of resilience in the face of adversity.This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the importance of pursuing one's true calling despite obstacles. Juhay's journey is not just a testament to her talent but also an inspiration for all aspiring writers to stay true to themselves and their art.Follow Juhea KimBuy 'A love story from the end of the world' Support the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Conversation Reload with Nadine Matheson, we revisit a captivating discussion with the talented author Dominic Nolan, known for his acclaimed novels Vine Street and White City. Join us as we dive deep into the intricacies of writing historical fiction, the art of research, and the challenges of navigating the publishing industry.Dominic shares his journey of living in the "rabbit hole" of research, revealing how his fascination with London history fuels his storytelling. He candidly discusses the ten-year journey to get his first novel published and what surprised him about the publishing world along the way. With humor and insight, he reflects on the importance of planning in writing and how it can paradoxically lead to greater spontaneity in creativity.This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for writers and readers alike, as Dominic emphasises the value of trusting relationships in the publishing process and the necessity of moving forward with each new project. Listeners will find inspiration in his journey and his unique perspective on the craft of writing.Follow Dominic NolanBuy White City Support the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we are joined by the talented author G.D. Wright, whose latest novel, Into the Fire, is making waves in the crime world. With a backdrop of Christmas cheer, Nadine and G.D. Wright dive into the intricacies of the writing process, exploring the journey from self-publishing to traditional publishing and the unexpected twists that come with it.G.D. Wright shares his personal experiences, including the challenges he faced during his health struggles and how they shaped his writing career. The conversation takes a candid turn as they discuss the importance of community support among writers, the realities of navigating the publishing landscape, and the significance of finding one's voice in storytelling.Listeners will be captivated by G.D.'s insights on creativity, resilience, and the beauty of writing from personal experiences. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the power of storytelling and the connections that bind us, especially during the holiday season.Follow G.D. WrightBuy Into The FireSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Conversation Reload with Nadine Matheson, we revisit a captivating discussion with debut author Remi Kone whose debut novel, Innocent Guilt, is making waves in the crime fiction world. Join us as we dive into Remi's intriguing journey from Emmy-nominated TV producer to published author, exploring her experiences in the world of television and the challenges she faced as a new novelist.Remi shares her insights on crafting compelling characters, particularly the complexities of her protagonist, Leah Hutch, and the art of creating a truly villainous antagonist. We discuss the nuances of storytelling, the importance of character development, and how her background in TV production has influenced her writing process. With humor and honesty, Remi reflects on the highs and lows of writing, including the emotional journey of receiving feedback and the struggle to balance creativity with the demands of the publishing industry.This episode is a celebration of perseverance, creativity, and the power of narrative. Listeners will be inspired by Remy's unique perspective and her commitment to her craft, making it a must-listen for aspiring writers and fans of crime fiction alike.Follow Remi KoneBuy Innocent GuiltSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm in conversation with the talented author and journalist Justin Myers, known for his insightful storytelling and unique perspective on life. Join us as we delve into his journey from a career in journalism to becoming a published author, exploring the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way.Justin shares his candid reflections on the differences between writing for online platforms and crafting novels, revealing the emotional rollercoaster of waiting for reader reactions after years of hard work. We discuss the complexities of navigating the publishing world, the impact of reviews, and the importance of maintaining a thick skin as a writer. Through humorous anecdotes and heartfelt insights, Justin highlights the significance of storytelling in understanding our own experiences and the world around us.This episode is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the power of connection through literature. Listeners will be inspired by Justin’s journey and his new book, The Glorious Dead, which tackles themes of grief, love, and the intricacies of human relationships. Follow Justin MyersBuy The Glorious DeadSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️.Buy books by my guests  Bookshop.orgFollow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.