The Conversation with Nadine Matheson

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.

Welcome back to The Conversation with Nadine Matheson!In this episode, I am delighted to welcome the talented author Clemence Michelon, whose latest novel Our Last Resort is captivating readers everywhere. Join us as we explore Clemence's journey from journalist to novelist, delving into the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her writing career.Clemence shares her unique insights on managing the pressures of success, especially after the acclaim of her debut novel, The Quiet Tenant. We discuss the emotional rollercoaster of publishing, the intricacies of writing dual timelines, and how her experiences as an immigrant have influenced her storytelling.In Our Last Resort, we follow siblings Frida and Gabriel as they attempt to mend their fractured relationship during a stay at a remote hotel, only for their plans to unravel when a murder occurs. Clemence reveals the inspiration behind her characters and how her own life experiences inform her narratives, creating a rich tapestry of human emotion and connection.This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for aspiring writers and anyone interested in the art of storytelling.Buy 'Our Last Resort'Follow Clemence MichelonSupport 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.

Welcome to Season Four of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson!In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome author Amy Jordan, whose gripping new novel, The Dark Hours, is making waves in the literary world. Join us as we delve into Amy's fascinating writing journey, exploring the twists and turns that led her to become a published author.Amy shares her insights on the realities of the publishing industry, the importance of resilience, and the unexpected challenges that come with crafting compelling narratives. We discuss how personal experiences shape storytelling and the significance of trusting your creative instincts, even when the path seems uncertain.In The Dark Hours, we meet Julia Hart, a retired detective drawn back into a chilling case that has haunted her for decades. As a copycat killer emerges, Julia must confront her past and the shadows that linger from her career. Amy reveals the inspiration behind her characters and how real-life experiences have influenced her writing.With candid reflections on the highs and lows of being a writer, this episode is a treasure trove of advice for aspiring authors and seasoned writers alike.Buy The Dark HoursFollow Amy JordanSupport 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.

Welcome to the Summer Break Rewind!While The Conversation takes a short summer break, I’ll be sharing fan-favourite episodes from Season Three, along with brilliant conversations from Page One: The Writer’s Podcast. Season Four returns in September until then, enjoy the rewind!-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this episode of 'Coffee Break', New York Times Bestselling author of Blacktop Wasteland, Razorblade Tears and All The Sinners Bleed, S.A. Cosby joins me to talk about his new book 'King of Ashes'.Whether you're already a devoted fan or discovering SA Cosby for the first time, this episode offers rare insights into the mind of a writer who continues to redefine contemporary crime fiction while never losing sight of the human heart beating beneath the darkness.King Of AshesA son returning home. A dangerous debt. Secrets about to ignite . . . and a family consumed by flames.Roman Carruthers left the smoke and fire of his family's crematory business behind in his hometown of Jefferson Run, Virginia. He is enjoying a life of shallow excess as a financial adviser in Atlanta until he gets a call from his sister, Neveah, telling him their father is in a coma after a hit-and-run accident. When Roman goes home, he learns the accident may not be what it seems. His brother, Dante, is deeply in debt to dangerous, ruthless criminals. And Roman is willing to do anything to protect his family. Anything.A financial whiz with a head for numbers and a talent for making his clients rich, Roman must use all his skills to try to save his family while dealing with a shadow that has haunted them all for twenty years: the disappearance of their mother when Roman and his siblings were teenagers. It's a mystery that Neveah, who has sacrificed so much of her life to hold her family together, is determined to solve once and for all.As fate and chance and heartache ignite their lives, the Carruthers family must pull together to survive or see their lives turn to ash. Because, as their father counseled them from birth, nothing lasts forever. Everything burns.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.

Welcome to the Summer Break Rewind!While The Conversation takes a short summer break, I’ll be sharing fan-favourite episodes from Season Three, along with brilliant conversations from Page One: The Writer’s Podcast. Season Four returns in September until then, enjoy the rewind!-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this special Summer Rewind episode of The Conversation Podcast, I’m sharing Episode 53 of Page One: The Writer’s Podcast, where hosts Marco and Tariq sit down with Alex Garland, the critically acclaimed writer and director of movies such as Ex Machina, Annihilation and, most recently, the TV series Devs. His career began with the bestselling novel, The Beach, before he moved on to writing screenplays for films such as 28 Days Later, Sunshine, Never Let Me Go and Dredd.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.

Welcome to the Summer Break Rewind!While The Conversation takes a short summer break, I’ll be sharing fan-favourite episodes from Season Three, along with brilliant conversations from Page One: The Writer’s Podcast. Season Four returns in September until then, enjoy the rewind!-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------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 ­- 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 final unpublished manuscript, a fictionalised account of his hideous crimes, hidden in a box of trinkets taken from his victims. Trinkets that include a ribbon belonging to a missing eight-year-old girl who disappeared only days before his father's death.Now, Nathan must deal with the consequences of keeping his father's secret. But it may not be as simple as finding a lost child. For The Midnight King holds Nathan's secrets as well as Lucas's, and he is not the only one searching for the truth...*First Broadcast: 10 April 2025Support 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.