Shows
The Book DealKayte Nunn on writing bestselling fiction across genres and publishersKayte Nunn is the bestselling author of nine novels, including The Botanist’s Daughter, The Forgotten Letters of Esther Durrant, The Silk House and The Last Reunion. Kayte grew up in England and the US, before moving to Australia. She has had a diverse career working in publishing, editing, and magazines, including as the former editor of Gourmet Traveller WINE magazine.Madeleine chats with Kayte about writing the book that calls to you, how to be disciplined and resilient, switching lanes and genres (even when you are a bestseller and have a 'brand', and lots of tips fo...
2026-07-0136 min
The KidLit PodKLP Chat: Tina Strachan on KidLit Community, Parenting Gen Alpha, and Industry NewsAfter signing a three-book deal as a debut, Tina Strachan has launched onto the Australian kidlit scene in a big way, becoming a wonderful advocate for children's literature, a popular emcee for events, and co-host of the The Book Deal podcast.Shara and Tina share recent updates, including Tina drafting a new project and Shara finishing final edits for Protector of Beyond, before discussing the big topic of parenting Gen Alpha in a screen-saturated world. They talk about reframing screen time, balance, “brain nutrition,” and preserving family rituals.Following this, they talk about podcasts, industry news...
2026-06-2548 minThe Book DealSarah Clutton shares how travelling the world and 'trusting the process' helped her create The Bookshop of Buried PastsTina Strachan interviews author Sarah Clutton about her new novel ‘The Bookshop of Buried Pasts’. Clutton outlines the story of antiquarian book dealer Phyllida Banks, who disappears and leaves her granddaughter Lottie to run their Southern Highlands bookshop and find a man named Francis, leading to a Cambridgeshire mystery tied to an unsolved 50-year-old crime, family secrets, spirituality, and threads of witches and Celtic mythology across 1960s–70s timelines. She discusses the setting’s inspiration from Berrima and Australia’s first “book town” region, the showstopping cover design, and the title’s evolution. Clutton shares research experiences, including a death doula cour...
2026-06-2453 minThe Book DealThe Writing Deal: It's EOFY! Natasha, Tina & Madeleine discuss the business of being an authorTina, Madeleine and Natasha catch up and discuss:Natasha's successful workshop on creativity and the nervous system, and how to get the most from creative flow. Natasha's title of her second book (!)All things small business: accounting, expenses, BAS, GST, mileage, super, income averaging, receipts. We go into the nitty gritty of running your own author business.Please do your research and always seek professional financial advice. Our listeners recommended the below specialist accountants for writers:Real ThielKylie Thompson at Sorrento StrategicMatthew Tucker from Creative CrunchersThis week's Debut in the Spotlight is D...
2026-06-1753 minThe Book DealEmily Maguire on non-fiction vs fiction writing, overcoming discouragement and practicalities of sustaining a writing lifeNatasha Rai interviews author Emily Maguire about her Queensland Literary Award–winning, Prime Minister’s Literary Award–shortlisted novel Rapture, inspired by a 1,000-year-old legend of a woman disguising herself as a man, rising through monastic ranks, and becoming pope. Maguire contrasts nonfiction research—structured around a topic and intended conclusions—with fiction research driven by deep point of view and character questions, and describes collecting sparks like art and journaled observations. She recounts early discouragement from a teacher, her first publication journey via mailed submissions and an ASA mentorship, and how international rights sales launched her career despite poor local...
2026-06-1058 minThe Book DealRebecca Lim on genre-hopping, rejection and the joy of 'having no brand'Content warning: Please note this episode contains brief references to crimes against children, including mentions of historical cases and industry terminology. These topics are not discussed in detail, but listener discretion is advised. Not suitable for younger audiences.Madeleine interviews beloved Australian author, Rebecca Lim. Rebecca is an Australian writer, editor and lawyer, and the author of over twenty books, including Tiger Daughter (a Kirkus, Amazon and Booklist Best Book, CBCA Book of the Year, and Victorian Premier’s Literary Award-winner), Two Sparrowhawks in a Lonely Sky (NSW History Award-winner) and the bestselling Mercy. Her wo...
2026-06-0356 minThe Book DealJess Galatola: reaching young readers through writing books with heartTina Strachan welcomes author and teacher Jess Galatola to The Book Deal podcast to discuss her upcoming children’s books: picture book The Witch Who Couldn’t Spell (launching 19 July) and graphic novel Seasons of Clementine (launching 4 July). Jess shares that The Witch Who Couldn’t Spell uses homophones and comedic chaos to encourage resilience, imperfection, and joy in language, praising debut illustrator Lou Baker’s Easter eggs. She explains Seasons of Clementine evolved from a picture book (The Cloud Collector) into a graphic novel after publisher feedback, and describes learning the format through Perenti Press workshops and the Perenti...
2026-05-2750 minThe Book DealThe Writing Deal: Natasha, Madeleine and Tina discuss editing deadlines, getting heckled and reading while writingHosts Tina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai introduce The Book Deal podcast and share monthly updates. Tina takes a break from an intense manuscript, catches up on author admin, runs a kids’ workshop at The Little Book Nook in Palmwoods, prepares for workshops and Bethany Loveridge’s Josie Mack launch at Quick Brown Fox, and flags opportunities including the Lighthouse Arts Residency (Hunter Writers Centre) and the Spier(s) Prize for middle-grade fiction via UWA Publishing ($5,000 plus a publishing deal). Madeleine finishes a book-two rewrite, recounts being heckled while interviewing Belinda Alexandra at Readings, and discusses craft insights from...
2026-05-2037 minThe Book DealAshley Kalagian Blunt on novel structure, strategic selling and compartmentalising when researchingNatasha Rai interviews author Ashley Kalagian Blunt about her thriller Like, Follow, Die. Blunt shares an elevator pitch: a Sydney mother, known as “the most hated woman in Australia,” faces a homicide detective at her door as three narratives (mother, cop, and son ages 12–19) converge around whether she reveals secrets about her teenage son. She discusses the novel’s origin as an Audible Original, how removing a key twist reshaped the story, and why this book was easier to draft than Cold Truth, for which she discarded a full manuscript. Blunt also describes researching the manosphere and education for boys, he...
2026-05-131h 14The Book DealBookstagram, community, events, reviews and reading with Brooke Michie (a.k.a @bmichie31)Brooke Michie is a lifelong reader and passionate supporter of Australian authors. She works in public libraries and loves nothing more than matching readers with their perfect book. As one of Australia’s most influential Bookstagrammers she reads and reviews hundreds of books every year and spends much of her time attending author events and raving about her favourite reads. Make sure you follow Brooke for all her recommendations on Instagram at @bmichie31. Madeleine chats with Brooke about how she first started her Instagram seven years ago and is now one of Australia's most influential Book...
2026-05-0645 minThe Book DealJacqueline Harvey: inside the world of one of Australia's most popular kidlit authors, and the rocky road it took to get thereTina Strachan interviews bestselling children’s author Jacqueline Harvey about her 20+ year publishing career, including nearly 70 books, 40 audiobooks, and Alice-Miranda adaptations. Harvey discusses her latest middle-grade series, The Girl and the Ghost, inspired by meeting a prince in a Singapore bookshop and research at Versailles that led her to make Louis XVII the story’s ghost. She explains how travel sparks ideas across her series, how Alice-Miranda took off after years of rejections and a publisher change, and why she values testing manuscripts with young readers. Harvey shares practical advice on celebrating releases, planning while allowing story surprises, using simp...
2026-04-2946 min
So You Want to be a WriterWriting Podcast Episode 714: Tina Strachan and the latest book in her Wilder Zoo middle-grade seriesSome kids dream of being a zookeeper when they grow up. Others dream of becoming a writer. Well, author and animal conservationist Tina Strachan ended up doing both! In this episode, she shares her passion for wildlife and how she ended up scoring a book deal for her Wilder Zoo series – with book 3, Neeka and the Great Search out now. She also shares her writing routine and experience working with a professional illustrator. 00:00 Welcome06:45 Writing tip: Carry a tiny book around11:26 WIN!: The Angry Wives Club by Gabbie Stroud12:57 Word of the week: ‘Spicate’13:2...
2026-04-2851 minThe Book DealThe Writing Deal: Natasha, Tina and Madeleine discuss 'stalking' story ideas, bookstore bravery, and 'who are you really writing for'?Hosts Tina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai reconnect after a busy few months. Natasha begins major structural edits on a 120,000-word second novel with tight timelines and a tip to rewrite editorial notes in her own words. Madeleine describes how edits revealed deeper issues, advises asking for deadline extensions, and discusses proactively visiting bookshops, introducing yourself to booksellers, and signing stock to boost visibility and sales. Tina reports starting an exciting new project after a beach break, discusses “stalking ideas” from the Jack Heath interview, and suggests naps can help solve plot problems. Cassie Stroud introduces her debut nove...
2026-04-2259 minThe Book DealJack Heath on novel ideas, writing practice and building a writing careerNatasha Rai interviews award-winning author Jack Heath (49 novels, published in 10 languages) about his YA thriller 'I Know What You’re Hiding'. Heath gives an elevator pitch: after a house fire kills one sister, survivor Jamie receives a blood-written note saying “I know what you’re hiding,” and teen true-crime podcaster Zoe investigates the blackmail. Heath discusses writing for ages 12–16, the book’s long development from an earlier pitch that spun into the 'Liars' series, and why Zoe returned after 'If You Tell Anyone You’re Next'. He explains lessons about series vs sequels, selling manuscripts to publishers, balancing promotion with writing...
2026-04-151h 02The Book DealRebecca Armitage on rejection and the road to a bestseller (with pre-empts, Reese's Book Club, and a TV adaptation on the way!)Madeleine interviews Tasmania-based ABC journalist and digital editor Rebecca Armitage about her debut novel, The Heir Apparent (December 2025, HarperCollins Australia).One might think Rebecca’s journey to publication was a bit of a fairytale, with simultaneous releases in multiple territories, pre-empts, a Reese’s Book Club pick and even a TV deal! But her journey to publication was not without its challenges, and Rebecca has some fabulous advice about creating good writing habits, finding resilience when dealing with multiples rejections and some great tips for when your book hits the shelves. She details early rejections, pitch...
2026-04-0850 minThe Book DealHow to succeed in writing competitions, agent and publisher assessments and networking, with Tina Clark, CYA conference coordinatorTina Strachan interviews author and CYA Conference coordinator Tina Clark about how the CYA writers and illustrators conference helps aspiring and emerging creators secure publication through competitions, bootcamps, and agent/editor/publisher assessments. Clark explains her motivation to centralize trustworthy industry information and protect writers from predatory services, and she outlines CYA’s hybrid format, including online bootcamps, in-person July sessions, and a rooftop networking event at the Pullman Hotel. She details how bootcamps work in small groups with editors, how competitions provide two sets of blind-judged feedback and shortlist entries for a final publisher/editor decision, and gives pr...
2026-04-011h 04The Book DealThe Writing Deal: Natasha, Madeleine and Tina on being a 'good literary citizen'The Writing Deal: Natasha, Madeleine and Tina on being a 'good literary citizen'.Tina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai share their updates in March: somatic therapy training, writing and editing in the snatches, immersion time, journalling, book research and more. Plus they brainstorm what their promo boxes look like and chat about what they are reading.They reflect on advice from HarperCollins Australia Head of Fiction, Catherine Milne, about 'bailing-up' publishers at events, the art/commerce balance, comparison titles. They also discuss what being a 'good literary citizen' actually means. 00:00 Podcast intro
2026-03-2542 minThe Book DealBridie Blake on writing romcoms, writing practice and 20 years of persevering for a book dealNatasha Rai interviews author Bridie Blake days before her rom-com debut The Boyfriend Clause releases. Blake pitches the novel: café owner Sabrina Fogarty enters a fake-dating deal with her broody neighbor, bestselling author Adam Whitaker, which escalates when he joins her family holiday to the UK. Blake discusses becoming a rom-com reader during the pandemic, her earlier years writing dark YA and suspense, and years of rejections, including a two-year US submission during COVID after signing a US agent. She explains developing The Boyfriend Clause from a “white lie,” outlining with a pitch and detailed plan, and choosing to publi...
2026-03-181h 03The Book DealThe Publishing Deal: Catherine Milne, Head of Fiction at HarperCollins, on Success, Bestsellers and Writing from the HeartThe Publishing Deal: Catherine Milne, Head of Fiction at HarperCollins, on Success, Bestsellers and Writing from the HeartCatherine Milne has worked in publishing for many years, including with Penguin Books, Allen & Unwin, and since 2012, with HarperCollins, where she has been Head of Fiction since 2017. Her list is eclectic, ranging across fiction and non-fiction, but consistently award-winning and bestselling. It includes such successes as Trent Dalton, Julia Baird, Holly Ringland, Meg Mason, Jacqueline Maley, Alli Parker, Rebecca Armitage, Jacinta Parsons, Stan Grant, Rick Morton and Ben Crowe.For more information about The Australian Fiction Prize, s...
2026-03-1156 minThe Book DealAmy Doak on writing young adult fiction, twisty crime, new books and tips for navigating the querying processTina Strachan interviews author Amy Doak about her YA mystery thriller What Have They Done to Liza McLean?, pitched as a twisty story set at an elite boarding school with dual viewpoints and secrets leading to a death. Amy discusses crafting one-liners using comp titles to convey “vibe,” avoiding overthinking, and balancing the ongoing Eleanor Jones series (book four, Eleanor Jones Is Not Drowning, due in July) with writing a standalone to avoid being a “one trick pony.” She shares her publishing journey: an unsellable adult action-adventure manuscript, writing Eleanor Jones for her teenage self and niece, pitching agents, submitti...
2026-03-0457 minThe Book DealThe Writing Deal: Tina, Madeleine and Natasha discuss 'listening' to Book 2, wading through the poo and figuring out the 'write' routineTina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai discuss recent author life updates and practical publishing-event etiquette. Tina shares launching book three of the Wilder Zoo series, “Neeka and the Great Search,” and they discuss gift ideas for in-conversation partners, the importance of stocking and pitching the partner’s books, and not feeling pressured to spend much. Tina talks about adjusting to a new writing routine, realizing she can’t sustain full-day creativity. Madeleine describes February becoming busier after a calm January, plans to restrict social media, and mentions discovering an unauthorized Melbourne walking tour based on her novel “The Butterfly...
2026-02-2551 minThe Book DealDebut Crew 26 pre-release feels, fears and excitement about having your debut novel out in the worldNatasha Rai explores the inspiring stories behind anticipated debut books of 2026 in her interview with Sophie Stern, Leearna Shaw, and Inessa Jackson, members of the 'Debut Crew 2026.' The authors share their elevator pitches, writing processes, publishing journeys, and how competitions boosted their confidence. They also discuss preparing for their book launches, navigating public speaking anxieties, and building supportive writing communities. Ultimately, the episode offers valuable advice for budding writers on maintaining perseverance and finding joy in the creative process.00:00 Welcome to The Book Deal Podcast01:00 Introducing the Debut Crew 202603:32 Leearna Shaw's Elevator Pitch06:28...
2026-02-181h 09The Book DealAlli Parker and Mark Mupotsa-Russell on finding success with your second bookAlli Parker and Mark Mupotsa-Russell on finding success with your second bookIn this episode, Madeleine chats second books with Alli Parker and Mark Mupotsa-Russell. Is second book syndrome a thing? Is it harder or easier to publish a second time?This is an episode full for heart, craft, strategy, lessons learned, screenwriting tips for novelists and self-care and is useful for a writer at any stage of their journey. The Wolf Who Cried Boy by Mark Mupotsa-Russell (Affirm Press)Until The Red Leaves Fall by Alli Parker (HarperCollins Australia)
2026-02-111h 13The Book DealAmie Kaufman on celebrating all the wins, setting writing goals, connecting with readers and the realities of bestseller lists.Tina Strachan interviews renowned science fiction and fantasy author Amie Kaufman. The conversation covers Amie's new book 'Red Star Rebels,' the writing journey, and the significance of comp titles. Amie discusses the realities of bestseller lists, the importance of celebrating small wins, and practical advice on managing social media and newsletters. This insightful episode is a must-listen for aspiring and debut authors, offering a blend of inspiration, practical tips, and industry know-how. Also featured is an introduction to Olivia Tolich and her upcoming rom-com 'Side Character Energy.'00:00 Welcome to The Book Deal Podcast00:57 Introducing...
2026-02-041h 10The Book DealThe Writing Deal: Madeleine, Natasha and Tina's 2026 writing goals, journaling, royalty statements explained, and 'what is rest?'Tina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai return for the 2026 edition of The Book Deal podcast. They reflect on their successful live podcast event with Hayley Scrivenor, their plans to spotlight debut authors, and Natasha’s upcoming panel discussion. The hosts share their personal writing journeys, including Tina’s plans following the launch of her third book in the Wilder Zoo series, Madeleine’s approach to writing her third book, and Natasha’s insights from working at a bookstore. They delve into the importance of rest, setting intentions for the year, and offer industry insights on royalty statements.00:0...
2026-01-2851 min
Words and Nerds: Authors, books and literature.4. BEST OF SERIES 2025 Dani Vee and Tina Strachan - maths and storytelling, creativity and writingTOP 30 COUNTDOWN BEST OF SERIES 2025
In this episode Dani Vee chats to Tina Strachan about the maths ins storytelling and pantsing vs plotting when writing a manuscript.
We chat about Tina’s unique writing processes including Save The Cat and Story Grid methods
The conversation turns to self-care and listening to the connection between our brain and body, making space for creativity, and how writing communities shape us as writers.
We also talk about Neeka and the Missing Key, published by HarperCollins, the first book of the Wilder Zoo series.
Publisher: Harper Collins
Music Credit: Happy Corporate Whistle, published by Fo...
2026-01-2730 min
The Book DealSUMMER SERIES The Publishing Deal: Publisher Ruby Ashby-Orr from Affirm PressHosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary delve into the world of book publishing and the journey to getting a book deal. They are joined by Ruby Ashby Orr, a publisher from Affirm Press, who shares invaluable insights on how to perfect your book pitch, the importance of knowing your market, and what publishers are looking for in submissions. Ruby discusses the acquisitions process, offers tips for emerging writers, and highlights the importance of being open to feedback and collaboration in the publishing journey. The hosts also celebrate the upcoming release of Madeleine Cleary's debut novel, 'The Butterfly Women...
2026-01-2153 min
The Book DealSUMMER SERIES Holly Brunnbauer on securing a book deal and social media tips that create true connectionsHosts Natasha Rai delves into an inspiring conversation with emerging fiction author Holly Brunnbauer. Holly shares her journey from catching the writing bug through blogging to landing a book deal with HarperCollins for her debut novel 'What Did I Miss?' Holly discusses her character development process, her innovative approach to flipping rom-com tropes, and the emotional depth and rage portrayed in her novel. She also provides valuable insights and practical advice for writers on feedback, publication, and leveraging social media as an author. The episode not only explores Holly’s professional trajectory but also touches on the broader th...
2026-01-141h 04
The Book DealSUMMER SERIES 20 book deals! Rory H Mather tells us how its doneThe summer season features an interview with Rory H. Mather, a renowned Australian picture book author. Rory shares his journey of getting published, tips for aspiring authors, the importance of rhyme and promotion, and insights on how he balances a full-time job, family life, and writing. The discussion also covers practical tips for getting work in front of publishers, building a writing community, and making a profit from writing. Tune in for an inside look at Rory’s experiences and valuable advice for aspiring authors aiming to secure their first book deal.00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Po...
2026-01-0757 min
The Book DealSUMMER SERIES The Publishing Deal: Literary agent Samuel BernardHost Tina Strachan kicks off the summer season by announcing a short break for the team while replaying some of the most popular episodes. Tina and co-hosts Madeleine Cleary reflect on their recent activities and achievements in the literary world. They interview Samuel Bernard, a literary agent from Zeitgeist Literary Agency. Samuel shares his journey into the literary world, the importance of social media for authors, the dynamics of the author-agent relationship, and gives insights into trends in the publishing industry. He also provides invaluable tips on querying, the significance of comparative titles, and strategies for writing compelling submissions...
2025-12-311h 14
The Book DealSUMMER SERIES Kylie Orr on competitions, writing craft, social media and letting goJoin Tina and Madeleine as they candidly discuss their paths in the writing world, from shooting author videos and exploring middle grade fiction to announcing upcoming book deals and generating new ideas. They reveal their personal writing practices, including plotting versus pantsing. Madeleine interviews Kylie Orr and they discuss the influence of social media on an author’s life and the challenges debut authors face in the publishing industry, such as managing expectations and gaining visibility. While reflecting on writer's block and finding inspiration in daily life, Kylie also celebrates the joy of seeing her books on shelves and th...
2025-12-241h 15