Ever wonder how detailed research can ignite a writer's imagination while crafting tales from the annals of history? Join our conversation with the gifted author Dom Nolan as he uncovers the magic behind writing historical fiction set against London's vivid past. Listen in as Dom dispels myths about the rigidity of planning in storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on the intricate dance between creativity and historical accuracy and insights behind his new novel, White City . Through Dom’s ...
Feb 18, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Season 3Ep. 107
Debut author, Sarah Handyside , has a handbook for you. Joins us as Sarah chronicles her path to publishing her novel, "Instructions for Heartbreak." From a childhood love of storytelling to a career in communications and policy, Sarah's experiences have shaped her narrative and provided invaluable insights into the writing process. Publishing a book is a complex journey, full of unexpected twists and turns. We explore the multifaceted roles of agents, editors, and marketers in shaping a book's ...
Feb 11, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Season 3Ep. 106
Best-selling author Sarah Raughley brings her powerful voice to our latest episode, sharing her journey and insights into the world of YA fantasy and historical fiction. Known for her dynamic storytelling, Sarah discusses her latest work, "The Queen's Spade," a gripping historical thriller that she describes as a Bridgerton revenge thriller. Sarah's reflections on the creative influences of video games and anime highlight the importance of diverse mediums in shaping unique storytelling perspecti...
Feb 04, 2025•1 hr 19 min•Season 3Ep. 105
It's a Happy Birthday to 'The Conversation with Nadine Matheson Podcast.'🎉✨ It's been two years since our first episode with guest 'Scarlett Brade' was released. To celebrate this milestone, this special anniversary podcast episode invites you to join me in marking two years of enriching conversations and my birthday. I'm thrilled to host the talented author Anna Mazzola , who navigates the intriguing shift from historical fiction to the gripping realm of legal political thrillers under the pen...
Jan 31, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Season 3Ep. 104
What if a writing partnership could transform skepticism into a creative powerhouse? Marcia Hutchinson and Kate Griffin, the dynamic duo behind the pen name Lila Cain, join me to share their compelling journey into co-writing their novel The Blackbirds of St Giles . Marcia and Kate open up about overcoming initial doubts and embracing their identities as writers, despite starting with established careers elsewhere. Their candid discussion on imposter syndrome offers valuable insights for any asp...
Jan 28, 2025•1 hr 26 min•Season 1Ep. 103
Sunday Times best-selling author Tom Hindle joins us for a captivating discussion on the magic of storytelling and the unpredictable path to success. From his childhood days of crafting handwritten tales on A4 paper to becoming a celebrated author. Tom's candid insights into the publishing world shed light on the challenges and triumphs authors face while finding their place in the literary landscape. We navigate the intricacies of securing a literary agent, the resilience required to overcome r...
Jan 21, 2025•1 hr 21 min•Season 3Ep. 102
What happens when a lawyer shifts gears to become an author, facing the intimidating world of publishing head-on? Together with Rhiannon Barnsley , a fellow lawyer-turned-author, we unpack the myriad challenges and rewards of this journey. Our candid conversation touches on everything from the balance of professional life and personal interests to the evolving role of AI in storytelling. We shine a light on the emotional rollercoaster of submitting work to editors, which can sometimes feel even ...
Jan 14, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Season 3Ep. 101
Celebrating a remarkable milestone, we bring you the 100th episode of "The Conversation with Nadine Matheson ," featuring the award winning and bestselling author M.W. Craven . We talk about the serendipitous events that shaped Craven’s career, from a fateful book signing encounter that set the course for his success, to the powerful role of networking within the crime writing community. Craven's journey is filled with tales of unexpected luck, chance meetings, the importance of being in the rig...
Jan 07, 2025•1 hr 23 min•Season 3Ep. 100
Ever wondered what it's really like to be an author in today’s publishing world? Join us for an enlightening conversation with the talented Jo Jakeman as she pulls back the curtain on the realities of an author's journey. From the exhilarating moment of landing an agent to the rollercoaster ride of book sales, Jo shares the highs and lows that TV glamorization often overlooks. As we approach 2025, we dive into the pressures of book tours, the unexpected twists of defamation lawsuits, and the res...
Dec 31, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 3Ep. 99
Fiona Lucas is my Christmas Eve guest and in our conversation, we talk about her journey through the world of romance writing, breaking down stereotypes and sharing valuable insights into her creative process. Listen as Fiona, with her vibrant personality, shares her creative process, delves into the chaotic yet humorous world of publishing, and offers insights into transitioning from series romance to wider commercial fiction. We also talk about being a BookTok influencer and her latest book, "...
Dec 24, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Season 3Ep. 98
Kate Ruby , renowned author and TV producer, joins me to unpack her incredible journey from crafting lighthearted rom-coms to penning edge-of-your-seat domestic thrillers. This episode doesn't just skim the surface; we dissect Kate's career evolution and delve into the unique experiences that shaped her storytelling skills, from her unconventional childhood to her dynamic roles in television production at major networks like Channel 4 and the BBC. Her insights into transitioning between the coll...
Dec 17, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 3Ep. 97
Louise Minchin , a familiar face from BBC Breakfast, takes us beyond the red sofa and into the crime fiction world with her debut novel, "Isolation Island." Our conversation unveils the transformation from journalism to thriller writing, sharing the emotional highs and the challenges of stepping into an entirely new career path. Louise candidly discusses the courage it took to transition from non-fiction to fiction, and how her experiences on "I'm a Celebrity" inspired her storytelling journey. ...
Dec 10, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 3Ep. 96
Sunday Times bestselling author Karen Swan , takes us on a journey through her unexpected path to authorship, from journalism to becoming a bestselling novelist. She recounts how an innocuous library visit revealed her innate storytelling gift, challenging her preconceived career notions. We talk about the critical balancing act between creativity and professionalism in publishing, diving into the realities of the editing process and her new novel, 'All I Want for Christmas'. All I Want For Chri...
Dec 03, 2024•1 hr 23 min•Season 3Ep. 95
Our episode features a riveting chat with author Jamie West , who brings a wealth of knowledge from his theatre background to the self-publishing scene. Jamie helps us draw fascinating parallels between the theatre and publishing, emphasising the value of all entertainment forms, from popular culture to high art. Forget the notion of "guilty pleasures"—we champion the joy of consuming art in its myriad forms and talk about his new book, Murder At The Matinee . Experience the hard work that goes ...
Nov 26, 2024•1 hr 23 min•Season 3Ep. 94
We're joined by debut author Roxie Key , who opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of releasing her first book, "The Deadly Spark." From wrestling with imposter syndrome to navigating life-changing events like pregnancy, Roxie's candid reflections offer a deeply personal look at the fears and triumphs of a first-time author. We talk about the realities of publishing, the unexpected challenges of self-promotion and public speaking, and the vital importance of understanding that not everyone ...
Nov 19, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Season 3Ep. 93
What if the keys to navigating life's unpredictable journey lie in the intersection of creativity, failure, and joy? Join me as I sit down with the multi-talented Damilare Kuku , an author and actress noted for her profound reflections on life and art. We talk about her new novel, "Only Big Bum Bum Matters Tomorrow" and unravel how her passion for storytelling serves as a powerful tool for offloading personal burdens and finding happiness amidst online criticism. Only Big Bum Bum Matters Tomorro...
Nov 12, 2024•58 min•Season 3Ep. 92
Join us on a journey through the trials and triumphs of publishing, as Cameron Capello opens up about the surreal moments of recognition as a content creator. We talk about the emotional rollercoaster of reviews, the evolution of familial support, and how social media platforms like BookTok play a crucial role in building confidence and community. Get a glimpse into the creative process behind "I'll Look for You Everywhere," and enjoy a playful session of casting its characters. Together, we exp...
Nov 05, 2024•53 min•Season 3Ep. 91
Welcome to a special bonus episode of The Conversation. This episode which is also available to watch on YouTube celebrates Black History Month and Black crime writers. Join us as we bring together the brilliant minds of Dorothy Koomson , Amen Alonge and Leye Adenle for a conversation that's as enlightening as it is entertaining. Dorothy shares her fascinating journey from crafting romantic comedies to weaving emotional thrillers, while Amen reveals how a lifelong passion for crime fiction ignit...
Nov 01, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Season 3Ep. 90
This week I'm in conversation with bestselling author Russ Thomas , offering a glimpse into his juggling act of writing and balancing "proper" jobs to cover bills. Russ sheds light on the realities of publishing and the notorious "second book syndrome"—a struggle known to many authors. Listen in for tips on setting daily writing goals, the challenges of weaving complex themes, and why every book feels like a challenging yet rewarding child. It's a candid look at the hurdles and triumphs faced by...
Oct 29, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 3Ep. 89
What happens to the children who are left behind when their parents seek a new life in a distant land? This haunting question forms the heart of a conversation with author Anne Hawk , who joins us to share insights from her novel "Pages of The Sea" . Together, we unravel the stories of the Windrush generation, focusing on the emotional complexities of family separation and reunion, with a personal lens drawn from our own Caribbean roots. As we reflect on these narratives, we emphasize the necess...
Oct 21, 2024•1 hr 10 min•Season 3Ep. 88
My conversation with author Louise Swanson takes a deep dive into the realm of storytelling and the realities of the writing industry. This episode is a candid testament to the financial realities faced by writers, the comfort that comes from having an agent, and the evolving definitions of success in an ever-changing industry. Louise shares her insights and experiences, offering a mirror to anyone who wonders about perseverance in the absence of a book deal and the art of connecting authentical...
Oct 14, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 3Ep. 87
We welcome Elvin James Mensah , author of "Small Joys," into our conversation, where we unravel the complexities of pursuing a writing career without the traditional backing of family support. Elvin's insights into turning personal narratives into fiction reveal the delicate balance between family expectations and creative aspirations. Together, we share the universal struggle of finding one's voice in the face of cultural and familial pressures, and the comedic irony that comes when family memb...
Oct 07, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 3Ep. 86
Ever wondered how authors navigate their identities, genres and maintaining a writing career? Join me in conversation with Harriet Evans, the Sunday Times best-selling author, renowned for her heartwarming family dramas like 'A Place for Us' who is stepping into new territory with her latest work. Under the pen name Harriet F. Townsend, she unveils a thrilling twist in her career with 'D is for Death' , a captivating cozy crime murder mystery. From the complexities of the murder mystery genre to...
Sep 30, 2024•1 hr 28 min•Season 3Ep. 85
What does it take to transform from a humble bookseller into a Sunday Times best-selling author? Join me as I chat with B P Walter , who shares his extraordinary journey and the realities behind the success story. B P Walter candidly opens up about the book industry’s often-hidden complexities, from navigating early rejections to understanding the crucial role of supermarkets in a book’s success. We recount both the thrill and the anxiety surrounding book launches, especially during the unpreced...
Sep 23, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Season 3Ep. 84
What if achieving literary success doesn't erase self-doubt? Best-selling author Amanda Prowse joins us to share her remarkable journey from the streets of East London to becoming the writer of 35 books. Despite her impressive accomplishments, Amanda opens up about her ongoing struggle with imposter syndrome, revealing how her working-class background and challenging education initially made her question her potential. Her story is a powerful reminder that perseverance and passion can break down...
Sep 16, 2024•52 min•Season 3Ep. 83
*The Best of Season 2 of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson - Part 2* This week, we're bringing you the best of my conversations with some of the most talented and celebrated authors in the industry. Join me as I sit down with award-winning and best-selling authors Femi Kayode (ep.41), Harriet Tyce (ep.62), Jo Callaghan (ep.68), Kellye Garrett (ep.71), Kia Abdullah (ep.36) and S.J. Watson (ep.64) What if launching your debut novel during a global pandemic turned out to be a surreal rollercoas...
Sep 09, 2024•1 hr 20 min•Season 2Ep. 82
*The Best of Season 2 of The Conversation with Nadine Matheson - Part 1* This week, we're bringing you the best of my conversations with some of the most talented and celebrated authors in the industry. Join me as I sit down with award-winning and best-selling authors S.A. Cosby (ep.58), Tim Glister (ep.56), Dorothy Koomson (ep.54) , Derek Thompson (ep.38), Erin Kelly (ep.63) and Saima Mir (ep.74). In this special episode, we dive deep into the world of writing, discussing everything from the st...
Sep 02, 2024•1 hr 22 min•Season 2Ep. 81
What if you could turn the highs and lows of your writing journey into your most compelling material? Join Nadine Matheson in the season finale of the Conversation Podcast as she welcomes her mentor, award-winning author Sarah Hilary . Together, they unlock the secrets behind Sarah's bestselling book, "Someone Else’s Skin," and discuss the emotional rollercoaster of the publishing world. From the excitement of auctions to the challenges of balancing vulnerability with confidence, Sarah's story i...
Aug 26, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Season 2Ep. 80
What happens when the fear of failure keeps you from pursuing your true passion? Leeanne O'Donnell opens up about her fascinating journey from documentary filmmaking and psychotherapy to finally embracing her dream of becoming a writer and the release of her debut novel, Sparks of Bright Matter. We promise you'll gain insights into the struggles of overcoming perfectionism and the deeply personal nature of sharing creative work. Leanne's story covers her early ambitions, her diverse career path,...
Aug 19, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 2Ep. 79
Join us as we sit down with author Ed James to talk about his multifaceted publishing journey—from traditional to self-publishing and everything in between—as well as his candid thoughts on embracing messy first drafts and the painstaking process of rewriting entire novels. Discover strategies for balancing work-life commitments while maintaining creativity, and understand the necessity of treating writing as a business with structured planning, effective marketing, and targeted advertising. Don...
Aug 12, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Season 2Ep. 78
