Writes4Women

WRITING FAIRYTALES FOR GROWN-UPS  What does it take to turn folklore into a rich, immersive novel? This week on Writes4Women, guest host Jo Riccioni chats with the brilliant Kel Woods about crafting historical fantasy, blending research with imagination, and the writing process behind her stunning books After the Forest and Upon a Starlet Tide. Kel shares how she found her unique voice, why mentorships transformed her writing, and the delicate balance between historical accuracy and storytelling magic. Plus—how do you create a male lead readers swoon over without falling into clichés? (Spoiler: Samuel might just be your new book boyfriend.) For our Substack subscribers, there’s an exclusive bonus chat where Kel and Jo go deeper into the craft and business of publishing—don’t miss it! Plug in. Get inspired. Let’s talk about writing stories that last.   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Patreon https://www.writes4women.com/support-us-on-patreon   Kell Woods Website : click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Jo Riccioni Website: click here Instagram: click here Facebook: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal land.  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

02-13

50:44

Welcome to Season 6 of Writes4Women! Join host Pamela Cook and Megan Dalla-Camina, a leader in women's empowerment and leadership and author of 'Women Rising', as they delve deep into the psychological aspects of writing, discussing inner critics, procrastination, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome. Both authors share personal anecdotes on how they manage their time, nurture their creativity, and handle feedback and criticism. Megan also speaks about the evolution of her writing process and balancing her many professional commitments, offering insights into maintaining resilience and cultivating a growth mindset. The episode emphasises the importance of honouring individual writing processes and staying true to one's creative journey.    SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Megan Dalla-Camina Website: click here Instagram: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.    Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

01-31

56:54

Looking for inspiration as you wrap up the year? Ready to dive into the highs and lows of the writing life, with insights from writers who’ve truly walked the path? This week on Writes4Women, it’s our 2024 Wrap-Up Episode! Join @pamelacookwrites as she chats with guest hosts @rachaeljohnsisanauthor @maryloustephenswriter, @joriccioni, and her VA @anniebucknall, reflecting on a transformative year in writing and podcasting. Why you’ll love this episode:  Insider reflections: Hear how our guests overcame challenges, celebrated triumphs, and tackled their writing goals this year.  Behind-the-scenes wisdom: Discover how Annie’s role in managing Writes4Women’s socials and Substack has strengthened the podcast community.  Creative practices that work: Learn tips for building a sustainable writing habit, even amidst life’s chaos.  What’s next: Get a sneak peek into the exciting plans for 2025, from book releases to writing retreats and more. SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Annie Bucknall - Well Creative Services Website: click here Instagram: click here     Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by  Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.                     Celebrate the wins. Learn from the journey. Keep writing.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12-19

01:00:06

Struggling to find your unique voice or create stories that truly resonate? Wondering how to weave big ideas into page-turning narratives? This week on Writes4Women  with @pamelacookwrites, best-selling author @nikki.gemmell shares the secrets behind her latest feminist literary thriller, Wing, and how she transformed personal experiences into powerful, compelling fiction. Here’s why you don’t want to miss this episode:  Build unforgettable tension: Discover how Nikki crafts layers of suspense and mystery, weaving together themes of friendship, gender politics, and generational divides.  Write with authenticity: Learn about her unique approach to second-person narrative and why it creates such an intimate, immersive experience.  Channel personal experiences: Nikki shares how journaling and reflecting on her own life fuels her stories, including Wing, which reimagines the darkness of the Australian bush and explores the complexity of female friendships.  Stay inspired: Hear how Nikki balances a prolific writing career with family life while creating works that resonate deeply with readers. Get Inspired. Get Encouraged. Get Writing.   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Nikki Gemmell Website: click here Instagram: click here Twitter: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by  Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.                    Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12-12

51:19

Struggling to write a story that hooks readers? Feeling unsure about how to balance plot, character, and big ideas? This week on Writes4Women  with Pamela Cook, Vanessa McCausland shares the secrets behind her latest novel, The Last Illusion of Paige White, and how she overcame the exact challenges you might be facing as a writer. Here’s how listening can help YOU:Tighten your plot: Vanessa breaks down how she crafted a twist so good her first reader (her husband, a plot genius) didn’t see it coming. Learn how to set up red herrings and keep readers guessing without losing the heart of your story.Make your characters unforgettable: Discover how she layered emotional depth into her characters, giving them flaws, secrets, and complexity that resonate.Get unstuck: Vanessa shares how she overcame self-doubt, followed her instincts, and pushed through creative risks to write her most ambitious book yet.Navigate the writing process: From messy first drafts to revisions that matter, this episode is packed with practical tips to keep your project on track. Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the trenches of a draft, this episode will give you fresh ideas, clarity, and the encouragement you need to write a story that stands out. Get Inspired. Get Encouraged. Get Writing.   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Vanessa McCausland Website : click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal land.  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12-05

49:31

Ever wanted to know how to edit a first draft? In this week’s solo episode Pamela Cook focuses on the craft of editing, sharing all of her insider tips–from structural elements, point of view, voice and more. With resources and insights galore, this episode is like a free mentoring session with one of Australia’s best-love writing coaches.   SHOWNOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Patreon https://www.writes4women.com/support-us-on-patreon   Sandy Barker Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here Buy Someone Like You here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook @pamelacookauthor Twitter @PamelaCookAU   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women and recorded on unceded Dharawal land.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11-29

53:13

Join us for a fascinating chat with Sandy Barker, an Australian author known for her travel-inspired romance and rom-com novels. With 12 books under her belt, Sandy shares insights into navigating the publishing industry, the importance of determination and resilience, as well as tips on keeping the joy of writing alive. We discuss her latest books, writing schedules, the balance of travel and writing, and her unique approach to story planning. Plus, discover special content for Writes4Women Substack subscribers!   SHOWNOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Patreon https://www.writes4women.com/support-us-on-patreon   Sandy Barker Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here Buy Someone Like You here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook @pamelacookauthor Twitter @PamelaCookAU   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women and recorded on unceded Dharawal land.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11-21

47:35

Jump into the latest episode of Writes4Women where Pamela Cook chats with international bestselling author Joanne Fedler about her enchanting new book, 'The Whale's Last Song.' Joanne and Pamela share deep discussions on the writing process, the transformative power of words, and the inspiration drawn from the sea. Get a sneak peek into Jo's journey from law to literature, her raw reflections on grief, and the magic behind her storytelling. AND paid Substack subscribers get an exclusive 15-minute bonus with must-hear writing tips!  SHOWNOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Patreon https://www.writes4women.com/support-us-on-patreon   Joanne Fedler Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram: click here Buy The Whale's Last song  here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook @pamelacookauthor Twitter @PamelaCookAU   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women and recorded on unceded Dharawal land.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11-14

53:49

Summary:  Join us in this week's episode as guest host Laura Boon chats with Gillian Wills about her new novel, Big Music!  Discover how Gillian pours her rich background in music into her writing, creating a riveting tale that intertwines passion, politics, and power plays within the world of classical music. Learn about her transition from a musician to an author, the challenges of writing fiction, and her advice to aspiring writers.     https://pod.link/1275851144   Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:50 Pamela’s Personal Update 03:01 Upcoming Webinars and Substack Bonuses 04:01 Listener Survey and Writing Prompts 08:04 Upcoming Podcast Episodes and Guests 09:30 Laura Boon Interviews Gillian Wills 32:14 The Sacrifices of a Musician's Life 32:40 Challenges Faced by Musicians 33:17 The Importance of Acoustics in Music 36:14 Publishing Journey and Rejections 39:57 Inspiration Behind 'Big Music' 42:20 Writing Process and Craft 53:39 Advice for Aspiring Writers   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Patreon https://www.writes4women.com/support-us-on-patreon   Gillian Wills Website: click here Instagram: click here Facebook: click here Buy Big Music here   Laura Boon Website: click here Instagram: click here  Facebook: click here Buy Tips From an Insider Insider here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by  Pamela Cook for Writes4Women.        Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11-07

01:05:41

This week, guest host Mary-Lou Stevens chats with bestselling author Maryanne O'Connor about her delightful new historical Christmas novel, MARY CHRISTMAS. Discover how this fun and festive romance came about while also getting insights into the writing journeys of both Mary-Lou and Maryanne. Plus, hear about exciting updates from Writes4Women and find holiday cheer with special giveaways and more!  SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Patreon https://www.writes4women.com/support-us-on-patreon   Maryanne O'Connor Website: click  here Instagram: click here   Mary Lou Stephens Website: click here Instagram: click here Facebook: click here Twitter:  click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by  Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10-31

38:13

Guest host Jo Riccioni chats with fantasy author Madeleine Te Whiu about her Assassin trilogy's final instalment, crafting complex characters, balancing a vet nursing career with writing, and insights into her creative journey. Madeline's passion for books began when she was growing up in rural South Australia. Her youngest memory of books is sitting on the lounge room floor while her mum read The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. She was shortlisted for the WA Premier’s Prize for Emerging Writers 2023 and her Assassin series she creates an unforgettable world rife with grave secrets and suspenseful romance. The last book in the trilogy, The Queen's Thief will be released on October 31st 2024. Expect world-building wonders, fan experiences, and the evolution of her dark fantasy series!   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Patreon https://www.writes4women.com/support-us-on-patreon   Madeline Te Whiu Website: click here Instagram: click here Tik Tok: click here   Jo Riccioni Website: click here Instagram: click here Facebook: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal land.  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10-24

01:00:30

Unlock the secrets of radical confidence, take steps to silence that inner critic and learn the profound distinction between the Hero’s and Heroine’s Journey in this week’s bumper episode with Megan Dalla-Camina, author of WOMEN RISING. Megan Dalla-Camina is the Founder and CEO of Women Rising and a world leading expert in women’s leadership. A celebrated coach, influential writer, researcher and advocate for change, Megan is known for her brave and refreshing approach to women’s empowerment, wellbeing and leadership. This conversation is jam-packed with aha moments about recognising and dealing with our inner critic, battling imposter syndrome and finding a way out of the internalised structures of patriarchy we don't even know we've absorbed.   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   Nikki Gemmell Website: click here Instagram: click here Twitter: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by  Pamela Cook for Writes4Women on unceded Dharawal country.                         https://megandallacamina.com/women-rising/#program  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10-17

49:21

In this 'From the Archives' episode of Writes for Women, host Pamela Cook sits down with award-winning author and mentor Lisa Hall-Wilson, author of 'Method Acting for Writers', to explore the craft of writing in deep point of view (DPOV).  Pam and Lisa chat about the nuances that distinguish DPOV from limited third-person narrative, the flexibility it offers in storytelling, and its popularity in genres like romance and fantasy. Lisa shares insights on using DPOV to achieve emotional depth and character immersion, touching on subjects like trauma representation and avoiding author intrusion.  The episode offers valuable tips and anecdotes for writers striving to deepen their narrative technique and engage readers through a vivid, character-driven perspective.   SHOW NOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Substack https://writes4women.substack.com/   Lisa Hall-Wilson Website : click here Facebook: click here Pinterest: click here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook: click here Twitter: click here  Instagram: click here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook on unceded Dharawal country.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10-10

34:34

Did you see Pam and some of the Writes4Women gang at the Northern Beaches Readers Festival last weekend? In this week’s episode Pam gives you her top takeaways after spending a weekend with amazingly talented writers and shares her exciting news!  SHOWNOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Patreon https://www.writes4women.com/support-us-on-patreon   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook @pamelacookauthor Twitter @PamelaCookAU Buy A Country Farm Christmas here   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women and recorded on unceded Dharawal land.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10-03

42:23

This week on Writes4Women, host Pamela Cook sits down with Christy Cashman, author of The Truth About Horses, for an unforgettable chat about her writing journey, from film to fiction. In this episode, Christy dives deep into the creative process behind her emotional debut novel—a coming-of-age story about a girl, her connection to horses, and the complexities of grief. Whether you're a writer or just love a good story, this conversation is packed with inspiration and insights you won’t want to miss.  Add this one to your playlist and prepare to get inspired by the world of horses and heartfelt storytelling!      SHOWNOTES: Writes4Women www.writes4women.com Facebook @writes4women Twitter / Instagram @w4wpodcast   W4W Patreon https://www.writes4women.com/support-us-on-patreon   Christy Cashman Website: click here Facebook: click here Instagram:click here Buy The Truth About Horses  here   Pamela Cook www.pamelacook.com.au Facebook @pamelacookauthor Twitter @PamelaCookAU   This episode produced by Pamela Cook for Writes4Women and recorded on unceded Dharawal land.      Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/writes4women?fan_landing=trueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.