In The Good Books with Luke Bateman

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What’s your story? Everyone has one — the ones we read and the ones we live.

In The Good Books is a new weekly podcast that serves as a community for those who believe in the power of a good story.

Each week, host Luke Bateman shares the books that have shaped his world, from timeless classics to buzzy bestsellers. He’ll also sit down with the most fascinating voices in the literary world — from bestselling authors to emerging new talent — as they reveal the inspirations behind their work.

This is more than a book club; it's a space to explore how the stories we consume influence the lives we lead.

We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au.

Follow all the action on our socials:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast

Last refreshed: December 10th, 2025 at 7:46 AM ⓘ

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Episodes

The Writer’s Room: Matthew Reilly

Matthew Reilly steps into The Writer's Room to discuss his latest books The Detective and the creative process behind his bestselling novels. (00:54) Matthew Reilly's Books Shaped Luke's Reading Journey (02:55) Getting Young Guys Back to Reading: The Power of Ice Station and Hell Island (05:01) Influential School Books: To Kill a Mockingbird and Lord of the Flies (07:31) Literary Influences (09:07) Advice to His 19-Year-Old Self (13:43) The Epic Scope of Mr. Einstein's Secretary (14:16) Finding ...

Dec 09, 2025•47 min

Books Which Will Bring You To Tears

Luke Bateman explores how emotionally powerful novels can help us process feelings and foster vulnerability. He discusses how fantasy characters exemplify themes like loss, loneliness, sacrifice, and reunion, and how historical and post-apocalyptic fiction offer relatable struggles. The episode emphasizes that embracing vulnerability and crying over books are signs of strength and connection, crucial for personal growth.

Dec 02, 2025•23 min

There’s A Reason It’s Called Epic Fantasy

If there is one thing Luke loves, it’s a quest. Luke picks three essential reads that define the epic fantasy genre, diving deep into epic world-building, intricate magic systems, and characters on journeys of impossible scale. (00:00) Intro (00:39) Listener Recommendation: A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin (07:58) Introducing Epic Fantasy (08:25) Personal Connection: Fantasy as an Escape (13:58) What to Expect: Not Just Swords and Soldiers (15:25) Defining Epic Fantasy vs. Fantasy (17:1...

Nov 25, 2025•20 min

Introducing My First Guest

Strap in, because this is a very special and emotional episode. Luke is joined by his biggest supporter, his Mum, to discuss his childhood love of reading, the books that shaped him, and the stories they cherish together. (00:00) Intro (01:08)The First Book Club Pick: The Great Alone (02:12) Introducing Special Guest: Luke's Mother, Leanne (03:30) Reading Rituals As Kids (04:52) Favorite Childhood Reading Memories (06:30) Reading's Positive Impact (07:47) Luke's Deep Passion for Books (09:42) A ...

Nov 18, 2025•22 min

Let's Talk About Smut

Is it hot in here? Luke's diving into the world of spicy books! It's time to unpack all things "smut," why its blown up as a genre, and the best reading recommendations if you're looking for something a little more saucy. (00:00) Intro (00:39) Listener Suggestion: The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab (02:34) Smut in Literature and Its Place in Culture (03:25) A Male Perspective: Shame and Barriers (04:18) Calling Tiona Page (Author and Friend) (07:44) Smut as Empowerment for Women (1...

Nov 11, 2025•20 min

Three Books That Saved My Life...

Stories have the power to change you. Sometimes, a few very special few have the power to save you. In this episode, Luke talks about three books which provided an escape from reality and helped him to navigate life during the darkest of times. (00:00) Intro (01:21) 3 Books That Changed My Life (01:48) Struggling with Depression and Addiction (03:22) Accepting Help and Changing Direction (06:11) The Happiness Trap by Dr. Russ Harris (10:34) Magician by Raymond E. Feist (17:17) You Are the One Yo...

Nov 04, 2025•22 min

Chapter One: My Story

From the NRL field to overnight BookTok fame, Luke shares the personal journey which has all led to laying bare a deep passion for reading. We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au . Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....

Oct 28, 2025•21 min

Coming Soon...

Are you ready to get In The Good Books ? Your next must-listen, weekly podcast is coming very soon ... Hit the follow button at the top of your app so you don't miss out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oct 16, 2025•2 min

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