The Conversation with Nadine Matheson

This is the reload of the milestone 100th episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, with the talented and award-winning author M.W. Craven. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of crime writing, exploring M.W.'s unique journey from probation officer to bestselling author of the Washington Post and Ben Koenig series.M.W. shares his insights on the importance of being in the right place at the right time, the impact of his previous career on his storytelling, and the responsibility that comes with being an author. We also discuss the challenges and triumphs of navigating the literary landscape, including the significance of building connections within the writing community and the ever-evolving nature of the genre.Listeners will be inspired by M.W.'s candid reflections on success, the writing process, and the balance between creativity and business in the publishing world. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for aspiring writers and avid readers alike, making it a must-listen as we countdown to Christmas and the New Year .Follow M.W. CravenBuy The Final Vow Support the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow 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 excited to welcome the talented and insightful Alison Larkin, author of Grief: A Comedy. We explore her remarkable journey from being adopted to becoming a successful writer, comedian, and audiobook narrator. Alison shares her experiences of searching for her birth mother and how that journey transformed her understanding of love, loss, and creativity.As we dive into Alison's life story, she opens up about her upbringing in England, her adventures in the United States, and the profound impact of her relationships, particularly with her late fiancé, Bhima. Through laughter and heartfelt reflections, Alison discusses the complexities of grief and the importance of living life to the fullest, even in the face of loss.This conversation is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of storytelling to connect us all. Listeners will be inspired by Alison’s journey of self-discovery, her passion for writing, and her belief in the enduring nature of love. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating their own path through life’s challenges.Follow Alison LarkinBuy Grief: A ComedySupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Conversation ReloadIn this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we are thrilled to reload one of our most popular episodes featuring the Sunday Times and New York Times bestselling author, Ruth Ware. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of the publishing world, exploring whether working in the book industry aids in getting published, the impact of social media on writing advice, and how Ruth navigates her success.Ruth shares her journey from aspiring writer to bestselling author, recounting pivotal moments that shaped her career, including the realization that writing was more than just a hobby. We discuss the importance of perseverance, the challenges of maintaining creativity amidst the chaos of life, and the emotional rollercoaster of publishing a new book.Listeners will gain valuable insights into the realities of the writing process, the pressures of creating engaging narratives, and the unpredictable nature of success in the literary landscape. Ruth’s candid reflections on her experiences will resonate with aspiring writers and readers alike, making this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about storytelling.Follow Ruth WareBuy The Woman In Suite 11Support the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch the episode on YouTubeWatch Amy McCulloch's ultra marathon journeyIn this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we are delighted to welcome the adventurous and talented author Amy McCulloch, known for her thrilling novels that push the boundaries of both genre and personal endurance. Join us as we explore her latest work, Runner 13, a gripping tale that intertwines the high-stakes world of ultra running with a captivating mystery.Amy shares her incredible journey, from her experiences climbing mountains and running ultra marathons to the challenges of motherhood and the writing process. We delve into the themes of her latest novel, including resilience, the pursuit of personal goals, and the complexities of female empowerment in the face of adversity. With her unique perspective on life and writing, Amy offers invaluable insights into the creative process and the importance of community in the literary world.Listeners will be inspired by Amy's candid reflections on overcoming obstacles, both in her personal and professional life, and her unwavering belief in the power of storytelling to connect us all. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of adventure, creativity, and the human experience.Follow Amy McCullochBuy Runner 13*Pre-Order 'Runner 13 - Paperback' Support the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch the episode on YouTubeIn this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we are thrilled to welcome the acclaimed author Lily King, known for her captivating novels that explore the intricacies of love and relationships. Join us as we dive deep into her latest work, Heart the Lover, a poignant narrative that spans three decades and examines the many forms of loveLily shares her journey as a writer, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs she has faced throughout her career. We discuss the idea of success in the literary world, the pressure of expectations, and the importance of perseverance in the face of self-doubt. As she recounts her early days of writing and the pivotal moments that shaped her path, listeners will gain insight into the creative process and the emotional resilience required to navigate the unpredictable nature of publishing.Throughout the conversation, we explore the themes of Heart of the Lover, including the complexities of romantic love, friendship, and the passage of time. Lily's candid anecdotes and reflections on her experiences will resonate with aspiring writers and readers alike, making this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about storytelling.Follow Lily KingBuy Heart the LoverSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch the episode on YouTubeIn this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we are joined by the insightful Kasim Ali, author of the thought-provoking novel Who Will Remain. Join us as we delve into the complexities of identity, family, and the struggles young men face in today's society.Kasim shares his journey as a writer, discussing the challenges of portraying the realities of his community authentically while navigating the expectations placed on him as a South-East Asian author. We explore the themes of his novel, which follows Ahmed, a young man grappling with loss, societal pressures, and the quest for self-identity amidst chaos. As he turns to a life of crime in search of respect and control, the narrative raises poignant questions about choices, consequences, and the quest for belonging.Listeners will gain valuable insights into the creative process, the importance of representation in literature, and the personal experiences that shape a writer's voice. This episode is a compelling exploration of how our backgrounds influence our narratives and the power of storytelling to challenge societal norms.Follow Kasim AliBuy Who Will RemainSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join 'The Write Inn'Watch The Show On Youtube In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we welcome the talented Gytha Lodge, author of the gripping new standalone thriller Dead to Me. Join us as we dive into the intricacies of writing a standalone novel and the challenges that come with creating new characters and settings.Gytha shares her journey of crafting Dead to Me, a story centered around Anna, a journalist who goes undercover to investigate a mysterious death at a Cambridge May Ball. As she navigates her way through a world of privilege and secrets, she must also confront her complicated past with her ex-boyfriend Reid, who receives a desperate email from Anna just as she goes missing. We discuss the balance of writing a compelling narrative while managing personal challenges, the importance of character relationships, and the thrill of setting a story in a familiar yet evolving environment.Listeners will enjoy insights into the creative process, the significance of emotional depth in characters, and the humorous anecdotes of Gytha's own experiences while researching for the book. This episode is a captivating exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the art of storytelling.Follow Gytha LodgeBuy Dead to MeSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch On YouTubeIn this episode of The Conversation Coffee Break, host Nadine Matheson welcomes the brilliant Alexandra Benedict, author of the delightful murder mystery, The Christmas Cracker Killer. Join us as we dive into the whimsical world of Christmas-themed mysteries and the creative process behind writing a festive whodunit.Alexandra shares her journey of crafting this unique story, which features her protagonist Edie O'Sullivan, an 82-year-old crossword setter with a flair for fashion and a sharp wit. Set on a remote Scottish island during a luxurious Christmas getaway, Edie and her companions find themselves embroiled in a series of puzzling murders, all linked to bespoke Christmas crackers filled with riddles. We discuss the challenges of writing a holiday-themed book, the importance of character development, and how Alexandra balances multiple writing projects simultaneously.Listeners will enjoy insights into the intricacies of planning a mystery, the significance of titles, and the surprising facts Alexandra learned while researching Christmas crackers. This episode is a festive treat, perfect for those who love a good mystery wrapped in holiday cheer.Follow Alexandra BenedictBuy The Christmas Cracker KillerSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch as a full video on YouTubeIn this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we welcome the talented Melissa McTernan aka Laurie Gilmore, an author who has captivated readers with her 'Dream Harbour' series. Join us as we discuss her journey from self-publishing to landing a deal with HarperCollins UK and the evolution of her writing career.Melissa shares her experiences of writing while balancing motherhood, the challenges of marketing her books, and the unexpected success of her cozy romance series. We dive into the creative process behind her latest book, The Gingerbread Bakery, and how her characters have developed over time, including the highly anticipated story of Annie and Max.Listeners will enjoy insights into the world of cozy mysteries and romances, the importance of community in the writing process, and Laura's thoughts on imposter syndrome. This episode is a delightful exploration of creativity and the journey of a writer who continues to inspire others with her heartfelt stories.Follow Melissa McTernan and Laurie Gilmore Buy The Gingerbread BakerySupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch on YouTubeIn this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, we delve into the captivating world of gothic literature with the talented Laura Purcell. Join us as we discuss her latest novel, House of Splinters, a prequel to her bestselling book, The Silent Companions. Set in a haunted house in 1775, the story follows Belinda as she uncovers dark family secrets while trying to protect her children from the shadows of the past.Laura shares her writing journey, including the challenges and pressures of crafting a prequel that honors its predecessor while standing on its own. We explore the intricacies of character development, the balance of historical accuracy, and how personal experiences shape her storytelling. Additionally, we discuss the ever-changing landscape of publishing and the importance of resilience in a writer's career.This episode is a fascinating exploration of creativity, the gothic genre, and the art of storytelling, offering listeners insights into the mind of a writer who continues to push boundaries.Follow Laura PurcellBuy House of SplintersSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch On YouTubeIn this episode of The Conversation Coffee Break, join host Nadine Matheson as she chats with the remarkable Marvellous Michael Anson about her newly released epic fantasy novel, Firstborn of the Sun. Today marks a significant milestone as we celebrate the book's publication day!Marvellous shares the inspiration behind her captivating story, steeped in Yoruba culture and mythology, and how a seemingly ordinary moment, viewing ice caps in the Sahara Desert, sparked the creation of a fantastical world filled with adventure, politics, and complex characters. We delve into the intricacies of character development, the challenges of writing a trilogy, and the importance of identity in a world that often feels unwelcoming.Listeners will discover how Marvellous navigated her writing journey, the surprising twists her characters took, and the valuable lessons she learned about resilience and self-discovery through her protagonist, Laura. This episode is a celebration of creativity, culture, and the magic of storytelling, leaving you inspired to embrace your own narrative journey.Follow Marvellous Michael AnsonBuy Firstborn of the SunSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch On YouTubeIn this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, I have the pleasure of chatting with the delightful Necole Ryse aka R.L. Killmore, an author who has made waves in the cozy mystery genre. We dive into her latest work, A Cinnamon Falls Mystery, which follows the story of Mia, a young woman returning to her hometown after a devastating breakup, only to find herself embroiled in a murder mystery.Necole shares her unique writing journey, discussing her transition from self-published author to traditional publishing and the challenges she faced along the way. We explore the importance of community in the writing world, the role of representation, and how her experiences as a librarian have shaped her perspective on storytelling.Join us as we uncover the heartwarming and humorous elements of cozy mysteries, the significance of supportive family and friends, and the creative process behind bringing Mia's story to life. This episode is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the joy of writing, leaving listeners inspired to pursue their own literary dreams.Follow Necole RyseBuy A Cinnamon Falls MysterySupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch On YouTube Today I'm taking a coffee break with the talented Vaseem Khan, an acclaimed author known for his captivating storytelling and engaging characters. We dive into his latest novel, Quantum of Menace, the first in a new mystery series featuring Q from the James Bond franchise.Vaseem shares his unique journey in stepping into the world of Bond, discussing the creative process behind reimagining Q as a complex character navigating life after MI6. We explore the intricacies of writing within an established universe while also infusing personal touches and contemporary themes into the narrative.Follow Vaseem KhanBuy Quantum of MenaceSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch the full video on YouTubeIn this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, I am thrilled to welcome the insightful Ali Harris, a talented author whose latest novel, This Wasn’t Meant to Happen, bravely tackles the profound themes of grief and loss. Ali shares her personal journey, reflecting on her experience with baby loss and how it influenced her writing process.We discuss the delicate balance between authenticity and storytelling, exploring how fiction can serve as a powerful tool for understanding and navigating grief. Ali opens up about her ten-year hiatus from writing, the challenges of returning to the literary world, and the importance of creating space for deep emotional connections in her work.As we delve into Ali’s characters, particularly Sophie and her best friend Nisha, we uncover the complexities of friendship during times of sorrow and the necessity of open conversations about loss. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, vulnerability, and the transformative power of storytelling, offering listeners a chance to reflect on their own experiences with grief and connection.Follow Ali HarrisBuy This Wasn't Meant to HappenGo to my shop on Bookshop.OrgSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch On YouTube:I'm delighted to welcome Winnie M Li, an award winning author, activist and Professor of Creative Writing. We dive deep into her latest novel, What We Left Unsaid, a poignant road trip story that follows three estranged Asian American siblings as they journey along Route 66 to confront their past and reconnect with their ailing mother.Winnie shares her insights on the complexities of sibling relationships, the impact of cultural identity, and the significance of travel in personal growth. We discuss her creative process, the challenges of writing about sensitive themes, and how her own experiences shaped the narrative. Winnie also reflects on the importance of representation in literature and the power of storytelling in bridging divides.As we explore the intricacies of her characters and the emotional depth of their journeys, Winnie reveals the surprises she encountered while writing and the lessons learned along the way. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of family, identity, and the transformative nature of travel, offering valuable insights for writers and readers alike.Buy What We Left UnsaidFollow Winnie M Li Support the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch on YouTube In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, I am excited to welcome the talented Indyana Schneider, a multifaceted writer and opera singer. We explore Indiana's unique journey through the worlds of music and literature, discussing how her diverse experiences have shaped her creative process.Indyana shares her insights on balancing her singing career with her writing pursuits, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs that come with navigating both fields. We delve into her latest novel, Since the World is Ending, a compelling story that intertwines themes of love, choice, and artistic integrity against the vibrant backdrop of Vienna.As we discuss the nuances of her characters and the emotional depth of her storytelling, Indiana reveals the importance of vulnerability in her writing. This episode is a celebration of creativity, authenticity, and the power of self-discovery, offering valuable insights for aspiring writers and artists alike.Buy Since the World is EndingFollow Indyana SchneiderSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining me is the multifaceted Kelechi Okafor, a writer, presenter, actress, social commentator, and podcast host. Join us as we dive into Kelechi's journey, exploring her debut novel 'Awakened', a gripping tale that blends speculative fiction with crime, set against the backdrop of London.Kelechi shares her experiences navigating the complexities of the publishing world, discussing the challenges of being a black author in a predominantly white industry. We delve into her creative process, the inspirations behind her characters, and how her personal experiences have shaped her writing. Kelechi's insights on the importance of authenticity and representation in literature are both enlightening and empowering.As we discuss the themes of her novel, including the search for identity and the impact of societal expectations, Kelechi also reflects on her own journey of self-discovery and resilience. This episode is a celebration of creativity, courage, and the magic of storytelling, offering valuable lessons for aspiring writers and readers alike.Buy AwakenedFollow Kelechi Okafor Support the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining me for a coffee break is Jonnie Fielding, also known as Bowl of Chalk, a remarkable tour guide and author. We dive into his latest book, Why Is Downing Street Painted Black? And 364 Fun London Facts, which promises to entertain and educate readers with quirky and fascinating insights about London.Jonnie shares his journey from a tour guide to a published author, revealing how his passion for the city and its history inspired him to compile this collection of fun facts. We discuss the challenges he faced in the publishing world, the importance of social media in building his brand, and how he transformed his love for London into a successful writing career.As we explore the contents of his book, Jonnie uncovers intriguing anecdotes that highlight London’s rich history, from the origins of its street names to quirky tales of its architecture. He also addresses the misconceptions surrounding certain famous locations, offering listeners a fresh perspective on the city they think they know.This episode is a delightful mix of humour, history, and inspiration, perfect for anyone looking to discover more about London or simply enjoy a good story.Buy Why Is Downing Street Painted Black? And 364 Fun London Facts Follow Jonnie FieldingSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson, I am thrilled to welcome debut author Louise Hegarty, whose captivating novel Fair Play is taking the literary world by storm. Join us as we delve into Louise's journey from writing short stories to crafting her first novel, exploring the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way.Louise shares her insights on the intricacies of plotting a murder mystery, the importance of structure in storytelling, and how her passion for detective novels shaped her writing. We discuss the emotional rollercoaster of the publishing process, from securing an agent to navigating the whirlwind of submissions and offers, and how she managed to keep her sense of self amid the chaos.Set against the backdrop of a New Year's Eve gathering that takes a dark turn, Fair Play intertwines themes of grief and mystery as protagonist Abigail grapples with her brother's unexpected death. Louise reveals the inspiration behind her characters and the fascinating research that informed her narrative, making this episode a treasure trove for aspiring writers and fans of psychological thrillers alike.Buy Fair PlayDon't forget that you now pre-order my new book, The Shadow Carver. Subscribe to my Substack: The Writer's Verdict Support the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kathryn Sharman joins me for the first coffee break of season four to talk about her debut novel The Family at Number 23, a compelling psychological thriller, exploring the complex relationships between the characters Laura and Iris, two friends navigating the challenges of life, motherhood, and the pursuit of status.Catherine shares her journey of writing this novel, revealing how personal experiences and the intricacies of the housing market shaped her narrative. We discuss the psychological depth of her characters, the unexpected twists that emerged during the writing process, and the fine balance between planning and letting the story unfold organically.As Iris grapples with feelings of inadequacy and jealousy after her friend Laura's seemingly perfect life, an encounter with an elderly woman leads to a series of morally dubious decisions that spiral out of control. Buy The Family at Number 23Follow Kathryn SharmanSupport the podcast - Buy me a cup of coffee ☕️. Buy books by my guests on Bookshop.orgPre-Order 'The Shadow Carver'Follow MeBluesky | Substack | Instagram | Facebook | Threads Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.