The Conversation with Nadine Matheson

This week on The Conversation, Nadine Matheson welcomes debut author Mario Ambrosi to discuss his new children's novel, Scarlett Buckling and the Case of the Missing Pictures, Mario shares his journey from a career in communications to becoming a storyteller, revealing how his experiences in the world of social care inspired him to write a book that delicately addresses themes of dementia through a detective lens.In this engaging conversation, Mario reflects on his early storytelling days, the influence of his childhood in South London, and how he balances humour with sensitivity in his writing. He also discusses the importance of understanding character depth and the challenges of writing for children while tackling serious subjects. With insights into his writing process, Mario emphasises the value of habit and structure, revealing how he found his voice in the literary world.Join us as we explore the intricacies of storytelling, the significance of character development, and the joy of connecting with young readers. Mario's passion for writing shines through as he shares his experiences and the lessons he’s learned along the way.Follow Mario AmbrosiBuy 'Scarlett Buckling and the Case of the Missing Pictures' 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.

This week on The Conversation, Nadine Matheson sits down with Sunday Times bestselling author Sarah Vaughan, the woman behind Anatomy of a Scandal, Reputation, Little Disasters, and her brand new novel, Based on a True Story. In this episode, Sarah shares her experiences navigating the literary world, including the challenges she faced transitioning from journalism to fiction writing. We discuss her latest novel, Based on a True Story, a psychological thriller that intertwines family dynamics with suspense, set against the backdrop of a famous children's author and the secrets that threaten to unravel her life.Sarah opens up about her writing process, the importance of resilience, and how her personal experiences have shaped her narratives. We also explore the impact of societal expectations on women's stories in literature and the significance of authenticity in storytelling.Follow Sarah VaughanBuy Based on a True StorySupport 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, Nadine Matheson sits down with bestselling Irish author Patricia Scanlan, one of the pioneers of modern Irish commercial fiction, to talk about her brand new book, City Girls Forever.📚 In this conversation:How Patricia's debut novel City Girl (1990) was darker than she ever realisedRevisiting Devlin, Maggie, and Caroline — 30+ years later and in their "powerful age"The heavy themes hiding beneath the frothy covers: domestic violence, sexual assault, anorexia, and the strength of female friendshipWhat it's like to write characters who surprise even their own authorPatricia's writing process from typing at the kitchen table to writing in bed with two dressing gowns on! 😂Her next project: fictionalised Irish goddesses 🔥The writing advice that changed everything: "Write with fire in your veins. Edit with ice." ✍️💬 Patricia and Nadine also bond over the unexpected plot twists that blindside you mid-draft, the universal power of storytelling, and why a good book can unite a 90-year-old and a 12-year-old.🎬 Film recommendation from Patricia: Death at a Funeral (the British version!) a must-watch!👇 Have you read City Girls Forever or the original City Girl trilogy? Let us know in the comments!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.

This week on The Conversation, I'm thrilled to welcome the incredibly talented Tayari Jones, author of the New York Times Bestselling novel, Kin. Join us as we delve into Tayari's journey as a writer, discussing her evolution from a young storyteller to a celebrated author whose works resonate deeply with readers.In our engaging conversation, Tayari shares her experiences navigating the complexities of the publishing industry, the importance of friendship in her latest novel, and the challenges she faced while writing Kin. We explore the themes of love, identity, and the significance of women's stories, as well as the ways in which her personal experiences have shaped her writing.Tayari also opens up about her unique writing process, the impact of societal expectations, and the joy of creating characters that reflect the richness of human relationships. We discuss the pressures of success after the publication of her award winning 'An American Marriage', the role of mentorship, and the importance of maintaining one’s creative spirit amidst the noise of the literary world.Follow Tayari JonesBuy KinSupport 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 multi-talented Andi Osho, author, comedian, and actress, as we dive into her latest novel, Most Wanted. Join us as we explore Andi's journey from post-production in television to becoming a celebrated writer, comedian, and actress, and the unique challenges she faced while navigating this transition.In our conversation, Andi shares her insights on the importance of storytelling, her journey to the comedy stage, and the inspiration behind her latest work, which tackles the struggles of a millennial couple trying to secure their place in an increasingly difficult landscape. We discuss the themes of desperation and ambition that drive the characters to embark on a crime wave as a misguided solution to their problems, all while keeping the narrative humorous and engaging.Andi also opens up about her writing process, the research that informed her characters, and the importance of addressing social issues through fiction. We touch on her experiences in therapy and the significance of self-care for creatives, as well as the need for representation in discussions about perimenopause, a topic she passionately advocates for.Follow Andi OshoBuy Most WantedSupport 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 YouTubeThis episode of Adventures in Publishing-land dives deep into the battle for the "human soul" of the industry, featuring a frontline interview on the newest weapons in the author’s arsenal. We sit down with Anna Ganley and Sam Blake from the Society of Authors to discuss their new "Human Authored" scheme which launched at the London Book Fair. We explore the strategy behind the new logo and the message behind "Don't Steal This Book," the empty protest volume signed by thousands of authors including Kazuo Ishiguro and Richard Osman.Speaking of the London Book Fair, we also tackle the "Six-Figure Fever" that grips the industry every spring. If the headlines about massive advances are making you feel disheartened, we discuss why you need to ignore the hype and focus on your own journey. Plus, we look into the class-action lawsuit facing Grammarly and Superhuman, and discuss the latest legal action by publishers against a pirate books site.00:00 Intro00:53 The LBF Hype Cycle - Run Your Own Race07:24 Human Authored - Our interview with the Society of Authors36:12 Walk the Plank - Suing Anna's Archive44:20 Grammarly's Gamble - Not So Superhuman51:57 Off Script: Stranger Than FictionLinks:Human Authored - learn more about the scheme and how to sign upThirteen US Publishers Bring Suit Against Anna's ArchiveGrammarly Superhuman Expert Review ArticleAnd why they are being suedAdventures 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.

Joining me for a coffee break is the always insightful Neil Lancaster, author of the thrilling new novel, The Dark Heart. Join us as we dive into Neil's journey as a writer, discussing the evolution of his popular DS Max Craigie series and the unique challenges that come with writing about contemporary issues.In our conversation, Neil shares his experiences navigating the publishing industry, the importance of character development, and the delicate balance of tackling serious subjects within his gripping narratives. We discuss the inspiration behind The Dark Heart, which intricately weaves themes of espionage and far-right extremism into a captivating plot that reflects current societal concerns.Neil also opens up about his writing process, including the joys and struggles of creating complex characters and the impact of real-world events on his storytelling. We touch on the significance of addressing themes like male vulnerability and the emotional toll of policing, as well as the unexpected twists that keep readers engaged.Neil Lancaster's Recommendation: I SwearFollow Neil LancasterBuy The Dark HeartSupport 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 thrilled to welcome the talented Will Shindler, author of the chilling new novel, The Bone Queen. Join us as we explore Will's fascinating journey from script editing for The Bill to becoming a novelist, as well as his transition from writing police procedurals to delving into the world of horror.In our conversation, Will shares insights into the writing process, the importance of failure, and how his experiences as a newsreader at BBC Radio London shape his storytelling. We discuss the challenges of creating authentic female characters and the complexities of balancing multiple genres in his writing. Will also opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of navigating the publishing industry and the thrill of seeing his work come to life.We delve into the themes of The Bone Queen, a gripping tale about a mother searching for her missing daughter on a mysterious island, and the myth of the Bone Queen that haunts her journey. Will's unique perspective on character development and plot construction is both enlightening and inspiring and of course we talk about being 'South London and Proud' Crystal Palace Supporters 🦅Follow Will SchindlerBuy The Bone QueenSupport 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 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.