Shows
Murder JunctionEpisode 99 - A special episode recorded live at Malice Domestic, USA debating: Which is better? American or British Crime Writing?A special episode recorded live at the 35th Malice Domestic crime fiction convention in Maryland, USA where we debate the eternal question... Which is better? American or British Crime Writing?2023-05-0851 minMurder JunctionEpisode 98 - Sophie Hannah, Hercule Poirot’s Silent Night, and continuing the legacy of iconic charactersIn this episode we chat to Sophie Hannah, discuss the new Hercule Poirot novel, and talk about authors whose iconic characters have been taken up after their death2023-04-2447 minMurder JunctionEpisode 97 - Graham Bartlett, the world's oldest police forces, corrupt cops, and in the footsteps of NapoleonIn this episode we talk to former cop turned crime writer Graham Bartlett, investigate the world's oldest police forces, and walk in the footsteps of Napoleon2023-04-1046 minMurder JunctionEpisode 96 - Alis Hawkins, A Bitter Remedy, The Rebecca Riots, and history's most infamous poisonersIn this episode we talk to crime writer Alis Hawkins, discuss the Welsh Rebecca Riots, chat about Gŵyl Crime Cymru, Wales' international crime fiction festival, and profile some of history's most infamous poisoners.2023-03-2744 minMurder JunctionEpisode 95 - John Lincoln Williams, interviewing the Great American Crime Writer, and writers who were terrible peopleIn this episode we chat to crime writer John Lincoln Williams, discuss his new novel, punk rock, and interviewing Great American Crime Writers, as well as his biography of pop legend Shirley Bassey. We also talk about writers who were terrible people.2023-03-1341 minMurder JunctionEpisode 94 - Andrew Taylor, Restoration England, Poe in London, and TV crime show 'Ozark'In this episode we speak to renowned crime writer Andrew Taylor who leads us through Restoration England, discuss Edgar Allen Poe in London, and the TV crime show 'Ozark'2023-02-2753 minMurder JunctionEpisode 93 - Laura Wilson, Theakston's Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival, French publishingIn this episode we talk to bestselling crime writer Laura Wilson, discuss Theakston's Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival, and the ins and outs of French publishing2023-02-1338 minMurder JunctionEpisode 92 - Peter May, crime fiction meets climate change, Friday the 13thIn this episode we talk to crime writing legend Peter May about his new novel in which crime fiction meets climate change. We also discuss Friday the 13th, the superstitions, the films, and how numerology often trumps rational decision-making2023-01-3041 minMurder JunctionEpisode 91 - Helen Fields, The Institution, Prince Andrew's autobiography, and the best biographies of all timeIn this episode we chat to crime writer Helen Fields, discuss her new novel The Institution, dissect Prince Andrew's autobiography, and talk about our favourite biographies, quite possibly the best biographies of all time.2023-01-1645 minMurder JunctionEpisode 90 - Lisa Jewell, New Year's resolutions, books to look out for in 2023, and 101 recipes using chickpeasIn this episode we chat to thriller superstar Lisa Jewell, discuss a cunning plan to meet your New Year's resolutions, talk about books to look out for in 2023, and reveal 101 recipes using chickpeas that no one really wants to eat.2023-01-0248 minMurder JunctionEpisode 89 - Jane Harper, The Dry, Outback Noir, and sexy Christmas underwearIn this episode we chat to global crime writing superstar Jane Harper, author of The Dry, discuss Outback Noir, and pontificate on the merits of our sexy Christmas underwear2022-12-1943 minMurder JunctionEpisode 88 - Peter Hains, wildlife poaching, apartheid protests, and the different forms of meditationIn this episode we speak to Lord Peter Hains, politician and thriller writer, discuss wildlife poaching, apartheid protests, and the different forms of meditation2022-12-0540 minMurder JunctionEpisode 87 - Kate Mosse and Greg Mosse, historical fiction, the Cathars, climate grief, women pioneers, the Matilda Effect, and Granny RosieIn this episode we chat to literary superstar Kate Mosse and debut thriller writer Greg Mosse, discussing historical fiction, the Cathars, climate grief, eco-terrorism, women pioneers, the Matilda Effect, the Tibetan Joan of Arc … and Granny Rosie.2022-11-2152 minMurder JunctionEpisode 86 - Kellye Garrett, why women should rule the world, and strange laws in small town AmericaIn this episode we talk to American crime writer Kellye Garrett, discuss why women should rule the world, and investigate weird and wonderful laws in small town America2022-11-0741 minMurder JunctionEpisode 85 - Claire McGowan, David Beckler, The Booker Prize, and Ireland's 'vanishing triangle' disappearancesIn this episode we chat to crime writers Claire McGowan and David Beckler, discuss the Sri Lankan winner of this year's Booker Prize, and reflect on Ireland's infamous 'vanishing triangle' disappearances of women in the 1990s.2022-10-2439 minMurder JunctionEpisode 84 - Hilary Mantel, Wolf Hall, medieval owl cures, and the Declaration of ArbroathIn this episode we pay tribute to the late Booker-winning novelist Hilary Mantel, author of Wolf Hall, discuss medieval medical cures involving baked owls, and examine the Declaration of Arbroath2022-10-1030 minMurder JunctionEpisode 83 - Erin Kelly, The Skeleton Key, the Queue, and professional mournersIn this episode we interview bestselling crime writer Erin Kelly, discuss her new novel The Skeleton Key, chat about the phenomenon that was the queue for the Queen's coffin-viewing, and take a look at the world of professional mourners.2022-09-2640 minMurder JunctionEpisode 82 - The Queen's passing, Anthony McGowan and Dogs of the Deadlands, canine philosophy and Fenton's FavesIn this episode we reflect on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, interview Carnegie-winning children's writer Anthony McGowan, discuss his new book Dogs of the Deadlands - as well as the best philosopher of them all, and chat to book blogger Tracy Fenton as she rounds up her favourite crime novels of the past six months.2022-09-121h 00Murder JunctionEpisode 81 - Rev. Richard Coles, Murder at Evensong, St. Guinefort the greyhound, the meaning of modern faith, and the energy crisis.In this episode, Rev. Richard Coles, former rock star and vicar turned crime author, discusses his novel Murder at Evensong, St. Guinefort the greyhound, and the meaning of modern faith, while Abir and Vaseem have a rant about the unfolding social crisis in Britain.2022-08-2956 minMurder JunctionEpisode 80 - Nadine Matheson, intimacy co-ordinators, hamsters in space, and fun facts about GreaseIn this episode we talk to criminal defence lawyer and crime writer Nadine Matheson, discuss the row over film 'intimacy co-ordinators', pay tribute to a pioneering hamster, and chat about iconic musical Grease2022-08-1534 minMurder JunctionEpisode 79 - Mark Wightman, a potted history of Singapore, Agatha Christie and the Old Swan, and the origins of the Singapore SlingIn this episode we talk to historical crime writer Mark Wightman, who gives us a potted history of Singapore, discuss Agatha Christie's vanishing act in 1926 which inspired the world's largest crime fiction festival, and reveal the origins of the Singapore Sling.2022-08-0133 minMurder JunctionEpisode 78 - Luca Veste, Victoria Selman, the meaning of Scouse, and plagiarising C.S. LewisIn this episode we chat to crime writers Luca Veste and Victoria Selman who tell us about their new crime thrillers, what Scouse actually means, and plagiarising C.S. Lewis at the age of 7...2022-07-1851 minMurder JunctionEpisode 77 - Imran Mahmood and Ayisha Malik, barristers on strike, the illusion of free will, and a world that just shuts upIn this episode, writers Imran Mahmood and Ayisha Malik tell us about their latest novels, discuss the current barristers strike in the UK, consider that free will might be an illusion, and hypothesise a world where people decide to just shut up...2022-07-0439 minMurder JunctionEpisode 76 - David Fennell and serial killer thrillers, Jaipur Lit Fest and Borders Book Fest, and the man with no opposable thumbsIn this episode we discuss serial killer thrillers with crime writer David Fennell, chat about the Jaipur Lit Fest and the Borders Book Fest, tackle the heatwave, and are rudely interrupted by a famous writer with no opposable thumbs...2022-06-2031 minMurder JunctionEpisode 75 - National Crime Reading Month, Sir Ian Rankin, Vanessa O'Loughlin/Sam Blake, the Platty Joobs and fun facts about the QueenIn this episode we discuss National Crime Reading Month, talk to newly knighted British Book Awards Nibbie winner Sir Ian Rankin and bestselling Irish crime writer Vanessa O'Loughlin/Sam Blake, and chat about the Platty Joobs - the Platinum Jubilee - with some fun facts about the Queen2022-06-0646 minMurder JunctionEpisode 74 - Stephanie Merritt & S.J. Parris, Storm and Giordano Bruno, and the world's worst teachersIn this episode, thriller writer Stephanie Merritt discusses her latest novel Storm, and her alter ego S.J. Parris talks us through the life of her historical crime series protagonist Giordano Bruno, philosopher and cosmologist. We also discuss the world's worst teachers.2022-05-2329 minMurder JunctionEpisode 73 - Lord Jeffrey Archer, the Domesday Book, and the village of Great SnoringIn this episode we talk to literary titan and former deputy chairman of the Conservative Party, Lord Jeffrey Archer, investigate quaint English village names, and discuss the Domesday Book.2022-05-0952 minMurder JunctionEpisode 72 - British Book Awards special with Val McDermid, Ian Rankin, Abigail Dean ... and Mahatma GandhiIn this episode we chat to 2022 British Book Awards Crime and Thriller book of the year nominees Val McDermid, Ian Rankin and Abigail Dean. We also discuss Gandhi's legendary spinning wheel.2022-04-251h 01Murder JunctionEpisode 71 - David Baldacci and Dream Town, orang-utan blues, and the slap heard around the worldIn this episode, we interview thriller-writing legend David Baldacci about his new novel Dream Town, discuss his writing journey and his fear of orang-utans, and debate the "Oscars slap"2022-04-1149 minMurder JunctionEpisode 70 - The British Book Awards shortlist, Janice Hallett and The Appeal, The Dying Day paperback, and epistolary novelsIn this episode we chat to British Book Awards Crime and Thriller category shortlisted Janice Hallett about The Appeal, discuss epistolary novels from Adrian Mole to Dangerous Liaisons, and Vaseem's latest paperback, The Dying Day2022-03-2839 minMurder JunctionEpisode 69 - Maxim Jakubowski, The Perfect Crime, the "bad review", and 100 Shades of BrownIn this episode Vas and Abir chat to CWA Chair Maxim Jakubowski, discuss the new crime anthology 'The Perfect Crime', debate the "bad review", and consider penning a joint erotic nove...l '100 Shades of Brown' anyone?2022-03-1445 minMurder JunctionEpisode 68 - Anna Mazzola and The Clockwork Girl, war in Ukraine, and pole-dancing geckoesIn this episode we chat to Anna Mazzola about her new novel, The Clockwork Girl, set in 18th century Paris; mention her pole-dancing gecko, Elektra; and Vas and Abir get serious about the war in Ukraine2022-02-2833 minMurder JunctionEpisode 67 - Adele Parks and Alex Preston, Both of You and Winchelsea; from domestic noir to re-assessing the image of smugglers.In this episode we speak to Adele Parks, bestselling author of Both of You, and Alex Preston, writer, literary critic, and author of Winchelsea; we talk domestic noir and why the Robin Hood image of smugglers needs to be re-assessed.2022-02-141h 02Murder JunctionEpisode 66 - Dean Koontz and Quicksilver, dude ranches, dogs in literature, and a canine quizIn this episode we talk to Dean Koontz about his new novel Quicksilver, discuss dogs in literature, find out what a dude ranch is, and Abir takes on Dean in a canine-inspired quiz2022-01-3144 minMurder JunctionEpisode 65 - Craig Robertson and Amy McCulloch, cleaning up after dead bodies and climbing into the "death zone"In this episode we chat to crime writers Craig Robertson and Amy McCulloch, discuss cleaning up after dead bodies, and climbing into mountain "death zones"; while Vas speculates on what he might do with Abir's ashes2022-01-1751 minMurder JunctionEpisode 64 - A look back at 2021, a look forward to 2022, and a crime-writer's teapotIn this episode, we look back at 2021, take a look forward to 2022, and talk about Abir's crime-writing teapot2022-01-0334 minMurder JunctionEpisode 63 - Antti Tuomainen and Finnish noir, Fenton's Faves, and the world pillow fighting championshipsIn this episode, we chat to Finnish crime writing superstar Antti Tuomainen, as well as talking to Tracy Fenton of The Book Club about her five favourite recent reads, discuss the world pillow fighting championships, and present a very heartfelt and candid statement from Abir about co-host Vaseem.2021-12-2054 minMurder JunctionEpisode 62 - Stuart Turton and Seven Deaths, Imran Mahmood and BBC's You Don't Know Me, and where does the word 'tomfoolery' come from?In this episode we talk to Stuart Turton, author of the mind bending The Seven Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle, quiz Imran Mahmood on his adapted BBC show You Don't Know Me, and discuss where the word 'tomfoolery' comes from.2021-12-0647 minMurder JunctionEpisode 61 - Mikhail Sen and an actor's life, The Shadows of Men, and the Hollywood great quotes quizIn this episode Mikhail Sen, star of the recent A Suitable Boy adaptation, talks to us about his acting life, and the audiobook of The Shadows of Men; we then put him to the test with a Hollywood great quotes quiz2021-11-2243 minMurder JunctionEpisode 60 - Charles Cumming and spy fiction, Bay Tales, and how to reduce your carbon footprintIn this episode we interview spy thriller writer Charles Cumming and discuss his latest book Judas 62, chat to Vic Watson and Simon Berwick about the upcoming Bay Tales festival, and do our bit for climate change by reducing our podcast's carbon footprint2021-11-081h 00Murder JunctionEpisode 59 - Clare Whitfield, Jack the Ripper, the PG Tips tea chimps, and awkward pluralsIn this episode we interview Goldsboro Books Glass Bell-winning author Clare Whitfield, whose debut re-imagines the Jack the Ripper murders, discuss the fate of the PG Tips tea chimps, and investigate awkward plurals.2021-10-2538 minMurder JunctionEpisode 58 - Elodie Harper, The Wolf Den, ancient Pompeii, French literature and Abir's French junketIn this episode we talk to historical novelist Elodie Harper about The Wolf Den, set in the brothels of ancient Pompeii; discuss French literature and Abir's trip to France2021-10-1136 minMurder JunctionEpisode 57 - Tim Marshall and The Power of Geography, the best ever literary Scottish fiction, and a Bloody Scotland round-upIn this episode we interview author and journalist Tim Marshall and discuss how geography influences modern politics, discuss some of the best ever literary novels set in Scotland, and offer a round-up from the Bloody Scotland festival.2021-09-271h 01Murder JunctionEpisode 56 - Ann Cleeves & The Heron's Cry, Bloody Scotland live podcast, and wearing sliders and socks in public placesIn this episode we talk to crime fiction superstar Ann Cleeves & her latest book The Heron's Cry, we discuss our upcoming live podcast event at Bloody Scotland and your chance to win a set of signed bestsellers, and Vas gets his grump on about people wearing sliders and socks in public places2021-09-1338 minMurder JunctionEpisode 55 - Orenda Books special with Karen Sullivan, Awais Khan, Will Carver and Lilja SigurdardottirIn this episode, partly recorded in the beautiful Coles Books in Bicester, we speak to indie publisher Orenda Books with founder Karen Sullivan and authors Awais Khan, Will Carver and Lilja Sigurdardottir and their terrific new novels2021-08-3050 minMurder JunctionEpisode 54 - S.A. Cosby, Razorblade Tears, a new Writing Crime Fiction course, and events that shouldn't be at the OlympicsIn this episode we interview US crime fiction sensation S.A. Cosby, author of Razorblade Tears, discuss a new 'Writing Crime Fiction' course, and review the Tokyo Olympics - including taking certain Olympic events to task.2021-08-1654 minMurder JunctionEpisode 53 - Mark Billingham and Steve Cavanagh, Theakston Old Peculiar Crime Writing Festival, and the meaning of altruismIn this episode we talk to crime writing superstars Mark Billingham and Steve Cavanagh, discuss the return of the Theakston Old Peculiar Crime Writing Festival, and ponder the meaning of altruism and simple acts of kindness (including swimming with sharks)2021-08-0253 minMurder JunctionEpisode 52 - The Dying Day, racism in sports films, and Fenton's FavouritesIn this episode, Vaseem introduces his new book, The Dying Day, we discuss racism in sports films, and Tracy Fenton of TBC - The Book Club - tells us about her favourite novels of the past six months.2021-07-1941 minMurder JunctionEpisode 51 - Amit Dhand, the horrors of Partition, Tariq Ashkanani, and the Capital Crime New VoicesEpisode 51 - In this episode we talk to regular contributor Amit Dhand about his new book The Blood Divide, and Tariq Ashkanani about his thriller Welcome to Cooper. Tariq also tells us about the Capital Crime New Voices Award - open to anyone who wants to write a crime novel.2021-07-0547 minMurder JunctionEpisode 50 - Alex Michaelides, The Maidens, Imran Mahmood, I Know What I Saw, and judges with a sense of humourIn this episode we talk to Alex Michaelides, author of the global hit The Silent Patient about his new book The Maidens, and barrister-writer Imran Mahmood, whose new book, I Know What I Saw, is now out. Imran delves into the realities of the court system including judges with a wicked sense of humour.2021-06-2149 minMurder JunctionEpisode 49 - Laura Shepherd-Robinson, Will Shaw, Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, and why Truman Capote was jealous of Harper LeeIn this episode we interview historical crime author Laura Shepherd-Robinson, crime novelist Will Shaw, and discuss the Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, disappearances from trawlers, and why Truman Capote was jealous of Harper Lee2021-06-0755 minMurder JunctionEpisode 48 - Richard Osman & The Thursday Murder Club, Rahul Raina & How to Kidnap the Rich, Ajay Chowdhury & The WaiterIn this episode we interview The Thursday Murder Club author and Pointless star Richard Osman, quizzing the quizmaster with a quiz about quizzes. We also chat to Rahul Raina, author of How to Kidnap the Rich, and Ajay Chowdhury, author of The Waiter.2021-05-241h 12Murder JunctionEpisode 47 - British Book Awards special with Lee Child & Andrew Child, Ian Rankin, Oyinkan Braithwaite, and Joy EllisIn this special episode we chat to some of the shortlisted nominees for Crime and Thriller Book of the Year at the British Book Awards. Ian Rankin tells us about his white flared trousers, Lee Child & Andrew Child about their complete lack of sibling rivalry, Oyinkan Braithwaite about the amazing meaning of her name and winning the award last year, and Joy Ellis about her Imperial throne chair. Oh and of course they talk about their wonderful books.2021-05-101h 12Murder JunctionEpisode 46 - Mike Gayle, The British Book Awards and Count BinfaceIn this episode we make a very special announcement about the British Book Awards 2021, interview bestselling contemporary writer Mike Gayle, and discuss Count Binface's pledges for the London mayoral campaign2021-04-2656 minMurder JunctionEpisode 45 - Felicia Yap, Godzilla v King Kong, a race report bombshell, and talking apesIn this episode we interview Felicia Yap, author of techno-thriller Future Perfect, review the monster smash hit Godzilla v King Kong, discuss the recent race report, and chat about primate-based fiction. With talking apes.2021-04-1243 minMurder JunctionEpisode 44 - Dean Koontz, The Other Emily, the biggest selling authors of all time, and a brief history of the BibleIn this episode we chat to fiction legend Dean Koontz as he discusses his incredible career, review some of the others in the 'biggest selling authors of all time' club, and run through a brief history of the creation of the Bible.2021-03-2953 minMurder JunctionEpisode 43 - Saima Mir, The Khan, royal shenanigans, Craig Sisterson, Australian & NZ crime fictionIn this episode we'll be talking to Saima Mir and her debut crime novel The Khan, discussing THAT royal interview, and chatting to Craig Sisterson about Southern Cross Crime, his guide to Australian & New Zealand crime fiction2021-03-151h 07Murder JunctionEpisode 42 - Chris Brookmyre, weird titles, the celeb writer phenomenon, and sci-fi film triviaIn this episode we chat to Chris Brookmyre about his new book The Cut, discuss the phenomenon of celebrity authors, and talk sci-fi film trivia2021-03-011h 06Murder JunctionEpisode 41 - Val McDermid, busted boilers, the Tebbit test, and the Great Scottish-India quiz-offIn this episode we speak to crime writing legend Val McDermid, talk about busted boilers and the Tebbit test, before Val and Abir face off in the Great Scottish-India quiz helmed by Quizmaster Vas2021-02-151h 02Murder JunctionEpisode 40 - Ausma Zehanat Khan, the Bosnian conflict, human rights law, and the strange animal facts quizIn this episode we talk to Canadian fantasy and crime author Ausma Zehanat Khan, discuss the Bosnian conflict and the workings of human rights law, and pose a weird and wonderful animal facts quiz2021-02-0152 minMurder JunctionEpisode 39 - Frank Zafiro, American crime, Idi Amin and other coups, and ruined sleep cyclesIn this episode we talk to American crime author Frank Zafiro, discuss Idi Amin's coup, and chat about ruined sleep cycles2021-01-181h 00Murder JunctionEpisode 38 - New Year 2021, Putting 2020 on trial, Calendars from around the world and New Years resolutions,In this episode we look forward to the new year, put 2020 on trial, discuss different calendars from around the world, and make some New Years resolutions2021-01-0447 minMurder JunctionEpisode 37 - Sadsacks Assemble, Books and TV of the year, and Brown Christmas shenanigansIn this episode, all six of the Red Hot Chilli Writers return for a special Christmas episode to discuss how Asians do Christmas, our best books and TV series of the year, what we're looking forward to in 2021, and a truly toe-curling rendition of The Twelve Days of Christmas.2020-12-2150 minMurder JunctionEpisode 36 - Martin Edwards and Golden Age Crime Fiction, Great Christmas Novels, and the Great Craisin ControversyIn this episode we interview CWA Diamond Dagger winning Martin Edwards and discuss the resurgence of Golden Age Crime Fiction, talk Great Christmas Novels, and debate the Great Craisin Controversy2020-12-0750 minMurder JunctionEpisode 35 - Ragnar Jónasson, Icelandic crime fiction, fun facts about Iceland, and political chicanery on screenIn this episode we interview Ragnar Jónasson, Icelandic crime fiction superstar, run a fun facts quiz about Iceland, and discuss political chicanery depicted on screen2020-11-2355 minMurder JunctionEpisode 34 - Dan Smith, a political scandal from the sixties, How to Tame a Lion, and a tribute to Sean ConneryIn this episode we speak to prolific non-fiction author Dan Smith, discuss a political scandal from the sixties, discover how to tame a lion, and offer a quiz tribute to the late Sean Connery.2020-11-0946 minMurder JunctionEpisode 33 - C.J. Tudor, The Chalk Man, In the Heat of the Night, and the greatest ever movie quotesIn this episode we speak to C.J. Tudor, author of creepy thrillers in the vein of Stephen King, discuss the seminal film 'In the Heat of the Night', and present a quiz based on the greatest ever movie quotes2020-10-2649 minMurder JunctionEpisode 32 - Antonia Hodgson, Georgian smut, whisky investing, and the curious relationship between authors and alcoholIn this episode we talk to Antonia Hodgson, bestselling author of the Tom Hawkins Georgian-era crime novels, learn about whisky investing, and examine the relationship between authors and alcohol.2020-10-1247 minMurder JunctionEpisode 31 - Lucy Foley and The Guest List, David Headley and Goldsboro Books, This Green and Pleasant LandIn this episode we speak to Lucy Foley, author bestsellers The Hunting Party and The Guest List; chat to David Headley co-owner of the world's finest first-editions bookshop, Goldsboro Books, and speak to Ayisha Malik about her new book 'This Green and Pleasant Land'2020-09-2859 minMurder JunctionEpisode 30 - Aziz Ibrahim & The Stone Roses, BBC radio broadcaster Amanny Mohamed, Farhana Shaikh… and our Desert Island DiscsIn this episode we take a look at the music biz. We chat to rock legend Aziz Ibrahim, guitarist with the Stone Roses, and Amanny Mohamed, BBC radio broadcaster. We also list our favourite songs, with some revealing back stories. Finally, we meet Farhana Shaikh, organiser of the Home by 10 festival2020-09-141h 37Murder JunctionEpisode 29 - Tracy Fenton, The Book Club, great historical fiction, Waverley, Wolf Hall, & ShogunIn this episode we celebrate great historical fiction and discuss classics of the genre such as Waverley, Wolf Hall, & Shogun. We also speak to Tracy Fenton, owner and organiser of one of the biggest book clubs on Facebook.2020-08-3157 minMurder JunctionEpisode 28 - Sanjida Kay, Naked Lunch, how to catch bees, and the world's worst poetIn this episode we interview literary and crime writer Sanjida Kay, discuss some truly awful writing including William S. Burroughs' NAKED LUNCH and the world's worst poet, and present techniques on how to safely catch and release bees.2020-08-1743 minMurder JunctionEpisode 27 - Career Criminals at Theakston Old Peculier Festival, Literary festivals, Mud Festivals, Phallic FestivalsIn this episode we discuss festivals, the good, the bad and the plain weird. We also have a special segment from the world's biggest crime festival, Theakston Old Peculier at Harrogate, where we interviewed four brilliant crime authors: Mark Edwards, Susi Holliday, Claire McGowan, and Dreda Say Mitchell.2020-08-0354 minMurder JunctionEpisode 26 - Gillian McAllister, assault in fiction, The Accused, Lolita on trial, and a review of The Luminaries.In this episode we interview lawyer-turned crime writer Gillian McAllister, discuss sexual assault in fiction, take a look back at Jodie Foster in The Accused, put Nabokov's masterwork Lolita on trial, and review of TV show The Luminaries, based on the Booker-winning novel.2020-07-2057 minMurder JunctionEpisode 25 - Mark Edwards, writing great screenplays, Trumbo, Casablanca, The Usual Suspects and Seven.In this episode we talk to three-million selling psychological noir author Mark Edwards, discuss the art of writing great screenplays including such seminal works as Casablanca, The Usual Suspects and Seven, and profile screenwriter Trumbo and the Hollywood anti-communist blacklist .2020-07-0651 minMurder JunctionEpisode 24 - Imogen Robertson, more civil rights literature, fun facts about Martin Luther King Jnr, diversity in YA fictionIn this episode we speak to historical crime writer Imogen Robertson, discuss some more civil rights books, reveal some fun facts about Martin Luther King Jnr, and talk about diversity in Young Adult fiction including the wildly successful Ember in the Ashes series.2020-06-2258 minMurder JunctionEpisode 23 - Mike Craven, The Curator, race protests, books about race, and facts about the civil rights movement that you didn't know.In this episode we interview CWA Gold Dagger winner Mike Craven, discuss the George Floyd race protests, and reflect on books about race, and then look at some facts about the civil rights movement that you didn't know.2020-06-0855 minMurder JunctionEpisode 22 - Antony Johnston, mental health awareness week, books featuring mental illness, and Sigmund Freud on trialIn this episode we interview multi-talented thriller writer Antony Johnston, take a look at fiction featuring mental illness, put Sigmund Freud on trial, and examine the history of antidepressants.2020-05-301h 02Murder JunctionEpisode 21 - Mary Paulson-Ellis, books with dual timeline narratives, Ramadan and Hemingway, farewell to Irfan Khan and Rishi KapoorIn this episode we talk to crime writer Mary Paulson-Ellis, discuss books with dual timeline narratives, find out about Ramadan and Hemingway's take on writing while hungry, and bid farewell to two Bollywood greats, Irfan Khan and Rishi Kapoor.2020-05-111h 03Murder JunctionEpisode 20 - Stephanie Scott, books about long walks, John Lennon on trial, Alex Hawley, online bookfestIn this episode we interview Stephanie Scott, author of Tokyo-set crime novel What's Left of Me is Yours, we chat about books featuring long walks, put John Lennon on trial, and chat to Alex Hawley, blogger and one of the organisers of an online bookfest.2020-04-271h 06Murder JunctionEpisode 19 - Ruth Tross - an editor's guide to publishing, alternate history fiction, books that foretold the futureIn this episode we speak to publisher and senior editor at Hodder Ruth Tross, take a look at alternate history fiction, and also at books that foretold the future.2020-04-1359 minMurder JunctionEpisode 18 - Will Dean, post apocalyptic pandemic fiction, how to survive working at homeIn this episode we interview cabin-in-the-woods lumberjack and crime writer Will Dean, discuss post-apocalyptic pandemic fiction, and dish out tips for surviving working at home.2020-03-3054 minMurder JunctionEpisode 17 - Kia Abdullah, political thrillers, John le Carre, and turmeric - the cure for all illsIn this episode we interview Kia Abdullah, author legal thriller TAKE IT BACK, discuss some of the greatest ever political thrillers, and dissect the life of John le Carre. Oh, we also look at turmeric - the cure for all ills.2020-03-161h 01Murder JunctionEpisode 16 - Tony Kent, dodgy boxers, the broken legal system, virtue signalling, and democracy on trial.In this episode we speak to crime thriller writer, barrister and former boxer Tony Kent, discuss the broken legal system and the phenomenon of virtue signalling, and put democracy on trial.2020-03-0254 minMurder JunctionEpisode 15 - Amer Anwar, diversity initiatives on trial, Black Frankenstein, diversity in romance fictionIn this episode we talk to west London crime author Amer Anwar, and examine diversity initiatives, including diversity in publishing generally, in film, and in romance novels. A serious look at a very serious issue!2020-02-171h 11Murder JunctionEpisode 14 - Onjali Rauf, children's fiction from around the world, Lewis Carroll's jabberwocky wordsIn this episode we talk to Onjali Rauf, author of The Boy at the Back of the Class, take a look at popular children's fiction from around the world, find out how to make a 15-minute short film, and discuss the unique words that Lewis Carroll gave to the English language.2020-02-0353 minMurder JunctionEpisode 13 - Barry Forshaw, BBC’s new Dracula adaptation, gothic fiction, and Count Duckula.In this episode we examine the tropes of gothic horror fiction, announce the winner of Vaseem’s greatest ever female pioneer competition, talk to one of the country’s top crime fiction critics, Barry Forshaw, put Bram Stoker’s Dracula on trial, and revisit one of his lesser known descendants: Count Duckula.2020-01-201h 09Murder JunctionEpisode 12 - Natasha Pulley, New Year's resolutions and strange New Year's customs, and how not to use the phrase 'deus ex machina'In this episode we talk about New Year's resolutions - common ones and weird ones, Ayisha tells us about whacky New Year's customs from around the world, we interview award-winning literary novelist Natasha Pulley, and we talk to Amit about his inability to use the phrase 'deus ex machina'2020-01-0654 minMurder JunctionEpisode 11 - Dorothy Koomson, Christmas movies on trial, 'Brown Christmas', 2019 lowlights, Area 51 and a strange bananaIn this special Christmas episode we discuss how British Asians approach Christmas, put Christmas movies on trial, interview crime writer Dorothy Koomson, and chat about 2019's high and low points, including some of the most talked about stories of the year.2019-12-2351 minMurder JunctionEpisode 10 - Nikesh Shukla, Great Literary Themes with Dorothy Koomson, Your name in a novel competition, Bollywood battle: Mum v AlexIn this episode we talk to Nikesh Shukla on writing and rap battles, Vaseem introduces his next novel, Midnight at Malabar House, as well as a competition to get your name on a character in the book, Mum takes on Alex over the best Bollywood movies in recent years, and we discuss literary themes with Dorothy Koomson and Ayisha Malik.2019-12-091h 07Murder JunctionEpisode 9 - Luan Goldie, Brownface on trial, Death in the East, Asia-set classics, the secrets to writing and pitching a new TV series.In this episode Abir tells us about his new book Death in the East, we talk about literary classics set in Asia, including Shogun and A Suitable Boy, chat to author Luan Goldie, put Brownface on trial, and reveal the secrets to writing and pitching a new TV series.2019-11-251h 03Murder JunctionEpisode 8 - Chris Whitaker, Introverts v Extroverts, a review of "Quiet" by Susan Cain, and how Bollywood took over the worldIn this episode we interview Chris Whitaker, author of small-town American noir, talk about Introverts v Extroverts, and review "Quiet: the power of introverts in a world that can't stop talking" by Susan Cain, and also take a look at how Bollywood movies are now big business in China.2019-11-1158 minMurder JunctionEpisode 7 - Patrick Gale, the CWA Dagger awards, weird Stephen King facts, fairytales on trial, and the greatest ever horror filmsEpisode 7 - In this special Halloween episode we talk about the big winners at the Crime Writers Association Dagger awards, discuss weird Stephen King facts, interview literary novelist Patrick Gale, put fairytales on trial, and review some of the greatest ever horror films2019-10-2857 minMurder JunctionEpisode 6 - Elly Griffiths, Agatha Christie's disappearance, a fat bear contest, the Booker Prize, A Very Expensive Poison and book blurbsIn this episode we look at the link between Agatha Christie's disappearance and a hotel room in Istanbul, the fate of Edgar Allen Poe, chat to crime and contemporary romance novelist Elly Griffiths, find out about a fat bear contest in Alaska, discuss the Booker Prize, review 'A Very Expensive Poison' and talk about the influence of book blurbs.2019-10-141h 03Murder JunctionEpisode 5 - Bobby Seagull, who invented Zero, Bloody Scotland, Robert Burns, Capital Crime, Roald Dahl on trial and QuickreadsIn this episode we interview mathematician, author and TV star Bobby Seagull, find out who invented Zero, report back from the Bloody Scotland and Capital Crime festivals, discuss Scotland's national poet Robert Burns, put Roald Dahl on trial and talk about the Quickreads adult literacy programme.2019-09-301h 08Murder JunctionEpisode 4 - Helen Jukes, how to keep bees, Bond on trial, visiting Jane Austen, "Blinded by the Light" review, and how to write screenplaysIn this episode we speak to author Helen Jukes and learn why we should worry about bees vanishing and how bees listen through their knees; we put James Bond on trial, review the movie Blinded by the Light and its brilliant Bruce Springsteen soundtrack, discuss how to write a good screenplay, and pay visits to Jane Austen’s old house and Abir’s new lair.2019-09-1649 minMurder JunctionEpisode 2 - Ruth Ware, Theakston's Old Peculiar Crime Festival, Rudyard Kipling on trial, and a play called SweatIn this episode we talk to crime writing star Ruth Ware, chat about the world's largest crime festival, the Theakston's Old Peculiar Crime Festival, put British literary stalwart Rudyard Kipling on trial, and review a play called Sweat set in small-town America2019-09-0259 minMurder JunctionEpisode 3 - Clare Mackintosh, judging literary prizes, the Bradford Lit Fest, Escape Rooms, and a novel use for the hulaIn this episode we look at the tricky art of judging literary prizes, one of the world’s most culturally diverse literary festivals - the Bradford Literature Festival, the recent phenomenon of Escape Rooms, and a novel use in prisons for the humble hula.2019-09-0256 minMurder JunctionEpisode 1 - Ann Cleeves, Shakespeare on trial, Reality TV and the world's unluckiest parrotIn the first ever episode of the Red Hot Chilli Writers podcast we will be talking to crime author Ann Cleeves, putting Shakespeare on trial, discussing Reality TV and AI, and meeting what might possibly be the world's unluckiest parrot.2019-09-021h 01Murder JunctionIntroduction to the Red Hot Chilli Writers podcastA quick 2 minute intro to the Red Hot Chilli Writers podcast, giving a flavour of what's in store for listeners, including a few words from crime writing superstar Ann Cleeves and a rather bad impression of Sean Connery as James Bond.2019-08-0102 min