Shows
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
Australian Book LoversChristmas Special featuring Madeleine D'Este, Sandy Barker, Lisa Heidke, Kevin Klehr, BG Hilton & Kay KerrEpisode 159 has Christmas written all over it. Veronica and Laurie chat rituals, folklore, food and book stocking fillers with six Australian authors whose work is set in the festive season: Madeleine D'Este, Sandy Barker, Lisa Heidke, Kevin Klehr, BG Hilton & Kay Kerr. Plus we share seasons greetings from 30 Australian Book Lovers authors - a little about their books and a little festive cheer.Seasons Greetings from James Ynson, Nicole Kelly & Lisa Kenway - 0:57Intro - 2:18Seasons Greetings from Faye Hall, DT Bella, Max Jeffries - 5:11Chat with Madeleine D'Este author of A Very Evangeline...
2025-12-191h 32
The Book DealSPOILER BOOK CLUB: Kate Mildenhall on The Hiding PlaceSPOILER BOOK CLUB: 'The Hiding Place' with Kate MildenhallMadeleine leads a spoiler-filled discussion with Kate on her latest novel, The Hiding Place (November 2025, Simon & Schuster). Kate shares insights into the book's development, character choices, and the ethical dilemmas the characters face. Kate discusses her research process, murder plots, star picket fences and death cap mushrooms. Kate Mildenhall is an author, writing teacher and podcaster. Her debut novel Skylarking was longlisted for Debut Fiction in the 2017 Indie Book Awards and the 2017 Voss Literary Prize. Her second novel, The Mother Fault, was longlisted for the...
2025-12-1745 min
Words and Nerds: Authors, books and literature.Stuff Your Stockings Episode 3 with Adrian Beck, Tina Strachan and Lucie Stevens.Stuff Your Stockings Episode 2 with Adrian Beck, Tina Strachan and Lucie Stevens.
This pop-up podcast gives 2025’s debut kidlit authors their moment under the Christmas tree!
2025-12-1239 min
Be More BookishStuff Your Stockings with Tina Strachan and Lucie Stevens Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-12-1239 minThe Book DealAgony Aunt Hayley Scrivenor on 'bloody mindedness' for writing success, live at Writing NSWIn this final episode of the Book Deal podcast season 2025, Tina and Madeleine have a quick catch up reflecting on their debut year and share personal highlights. Then we switch to our LIVE episode with Writing NSW, where we interviewed Agony Aunt-in-residence, Hayley Scrivenor, who addresses all our writing woes. Hayley offers valuable insights on jealousy and envy, managing public speaking anxiety, persevering through the writing process, and the importance of writing authentically. The episode highlights the challenges and triumphs of writing and publishing, providing encouragement and practical advice for both seasoned and emerging writers.Ha...
2025-12-101h 02The Book DealHolly Cardamone on pre-launch strategies, communications and why publishing is a marathon, not a sprintIn this episode of the Book Deal podcast Madeleine interviews Australian award-winning author Holly Cardamone. Holly's debut novel, Summer, In Between (Hawkeye Publishing, September 2025) is a great one for your beach bag this summer. Holly shares insights from her book's developmental journey, including a surprising setback when she lost a notebook filled with manuscript ideas on a train in Italy, followed by a decade-long creative detour. She also discusses her manuscript winning the 2024 Hawkeye Publishing Manuscript Development Prize and the exhilarating process of getting her book published despite numerous challenges. Holly offers valuable advice on writing processes a...
2025-12-031h 05The Book DealThe Publishing Deal: Publisher, Tom Langshaw, on the strongest elements in a fiction manuscript, what to include in your submission pitch, and industry trendsIn this episode of The Book Deal podcast, host Natasha Rai interviews Tom Langshaw, publisher at Pantera Press. Tom discusses his journey from working at Penguin Random House to his current role, explaining the intricacies of the publishing process from manuscript acquisition to promotion. He shares insights on what makes a manuscript stand out, the importance of voice and character in fiction, and the significance of timing and market trends in publishing decisions. Tom also emphasizes the value of respectful and collaborative relationships with authors and offers advice for emerging writers on perfecting their pitches. Additionally, Tom highlights concerns...
2025-11-261h 02The Book DealKidlit superstar Kate Foster on managing multi-publications, co writing, celebrating diversity and being a good industry citizenHost Tina Strachan dives deep into the world of publishing, interviewing international multi-published Kid Lit author Kate Foster. Kate discusses her most recent book, 'Camp Spooky,' co-written with Pip Harry, and shares insights into the co-writing process, the importance of diversity in children's literature, and her dedication to promoting awareness through initiatives like the Danz Awards and the Author Pen Pals Program. This episode is a treasure trove of advice, experiences, and behind-the-scenes details for aspiring authors at every stage of their writing journey.00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast00:56 Special Christmas Episode Announcement02:25...
2025-11-1947 minThe Book DealNatasha, Tina and Madeleine on festival preparation, public speaking tips and embarrassing mothersThe Book Deal podcast, hosts Tina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai dive deep into the intricacies of securing book deals, managing writing schedules, and preparing for festivals. The conversation includes insights from experienced authors on pitching to festivals, the balance of self-care, and practical advice to handle writing burnout. They also share humorous and touching personal stories about family support and navigating audience interactions. Special announcements include a live event in Sydney featuring bestselling author Hayley Scrivenor and an exciting book giveaway. Tune in for valuable writing tips, festival prep advice, and much more.Book tickets...
2025-11-1246 minThe Book DealKate Mildenhall on publishing and resilience, publicity tips and what it means to be a good industry citizenKate Mildenhall on publishing and resilience, tips for interviewing other writers and what it means to be a good industry citizenMadeleine interviews acclaimed and bestselling author Kate Mildenhall. Kate gives an honest account of her journey to publication, detailing the rejections and the success along the way. Kate's latest novel, THE HIDING PLACE (November 2025, S&S), described as 'White Lotus meets The Slap, is a razor-sharp literary thriller about what happens when good people make bad decisions. Kate discusses themes like land ownership, the environment, and the evolving dynamics of long-term friendships. Kate offers v...
2025-11-051h 10The Book DealBelieving in yourself and the benefits of constant learning with Valerie Khoo, CEO of the Australian Writers CentreJoin our Patreon community for less than the cost of a coffee per month and support the pod! Your contribution will go to directly paying our sound producer, Brogan, and to help us bring you the conversations with industry professionals you love. Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videosYou can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here: Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videosTina Strachan children's book authorMadeleine Cleary (@made...
2025-10-2932 minThe Book DealNadia Mahjouri on finding writing support and submitting work to as many opportunities as possibleNatasha Rai interviews Nadia Mahjouri, a Moroccan Australian writer, about her debut novel 'Half Truth'. Nadia shares the journey of crafting her novel from mixing memoir and fiction, drawing from her personal experiences to the trials and triumphs of securing a book deal. She discusses her creative process, the challenges of fictionalizing real events, and the importance of emotional truth in storytelling. Nadia also provides valuable advice on how to navigate the writing and publishing process, emphasizing the significance of persistence, seeking feedback, and the willingness to put one's work out there despite the setbacks.00:00 Welcome to...
2025-10-2252 minThe Book DealEditing: spreadsheets, reading backwards, rulers and when readers point out errorsHosts Tina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai catch up on their busy lives, upcoming events, and delve into a detailed discussion about their editing processes and tips. They provide personal experiences, practical advice like using a ruler to read line by line, and even reading a manuscript backward to catch errors. Special shout-outs include celebrating Dyslexia Awareness Month and recognizing their supportive patrons, with a particular mention of Christine Newell. Additionally, Rebecca Grant shares insights into her new picture book, Potion Commotion.00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast00:29 Meet the Hosts
2025-10-1536 minThe Book DealEmily Paull on "retiring" from writing and her 17-year journey to publishing The Distance Between DreamsEmily Paull is a Western Australian librarian, author and book reviewer. Having formerly worked in bookselling, Emily is an avid reader and a big supporter of the WA writing community who regularly moderates author interviews around Perth. She is the author of the historical novel, The Distance Between Dreams (Fremantle Press, 2025) and the short story collection, Well-Behaved Women (Margaret River Press, 2019). The Distance Between Dreams was shortlisted for the 2023 Fogarty Literary Award under the working title 'The Dreamers.' Emily was also highly commended for the 2021 Fogarty Literary Award for her manuscript, 'The Good Daughter. Emily shares t...
2025-10-081h 03The Book DealAngie Faye Martin on writing layered stories, Indigenous representation and how to prepare for publicity and book promosIn this episode of the Book Deal podcast, host Natasha Rai dives into the debut novel 'Melaleuca' by Angie Faye Martin. Angie, an Australian writer of Kooma, Kamilaroi, and European heritage, shares the journey of her career transition from policy roles to writing. She offers an elevator pitch of 'Melaleuca,' a gripping crime novel involving Aboriginal detective Renee Taylor, and explores the themes of violence against Aboriginal women, sovereignty, and intergenerational trauma. Angie outlines her writing process, including her use of dual timelines, the influence of personal experiences, and the importance of layered storytelling. She also gives insights...
2025-10-0149 minThe Book DealMiddle Grade Debut Special with Shara Curlett, Sandy Bigna and Lucie StevensGetting That Elusive Book Deal: Insights from Debut AuthorsIn this episode of the Book Deal podcast, host Tina Strachan interviews three debut middle grade authors: Lucie Stevens, Shara Curlett, and Sandy Bigna. The authors discuss their unique publication journeys, the importance of community and continuous learning, and share valuable tips for aspiring writers. They also delve into the genres of middle grade literature, discussing themes, character ages, and writing conventions. The episode highlights the importance of resilience, the role of social media, and maintaining the joy of writing. Special mention is made of the supportive writing...
2025-09-241h 04The Book DealNatasha, Tina and Madeleine on strategies to identify and manage author burnout, anchoring your writing in time and intention settingNatasha, Tina and Madeleine on strategies to identify and manage author burnout and intention settingIn this episode of the Book Deal podcast, hosts Tina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai discuss various aspects of the writing life, including burnout, the importance of nature, the benefits of cold showers, and practical tips for managing time and self-care. They also share personal updates and emphasise the need for thorough editing before submitting work to competitions. The episode concludes with an update on the podcast's growth plans and a call for Patreon support.PATREON: After...
2025-09-1737 minThe Book DealJessica Box on portfolio careers for creatives, coaching, growing your author business, managing your time and social mediaJessica Box (co-founder of Matched) on portfolio careers for creatives, growing your author business, content creation and social media.In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, Madeleine delves into the intersection of writing and business with Jessica Box, an accomplished growth executive and founder of Matched: a knowledge-sharing marketplace with 250+ vetted advisors and coaches. Jessica shares her journey from a creative student to a tech leader, discusses the importance of storytelling in business, and offers actionable advice on managing a portfolio career, utilising social media, and avoiding burnout. The conversation also explores the evolving l...
2025-09-1055 minThe Book DealParamedic and writer Sally Gould shares her experiences of writing and editing memoir; how to use feedback and giving yourself time to make your work the best version of itselfIn this episode, host Natasha Rai sits down with paramedic and debut author Sally Gould to discuss her memoir, "Frog." Sally shares her journey from keeping clinical journals as a student to transforming her experiences into a compelling narrative. The conversation explores the challenges of writing memoir, the process of seeking feedback, navigating the publishing world, and the emotional impact of sharing personal stories. Sally offers candid insights into the realities of paramedic life, the importance of time in the creative process, and advice for aspiring writers.00:00 – IntroductionNatasha introduces the Book Deal Podcast an...
2025-09-0353 minThe Book DealGraphic novel publisher and debut author, Bethany Loveridge, shares tips for navigating kidlit publishingIn episode 48 of the Book Deal podcast, host Tina Strachan interviews Bethany Loveridge, a champion of children's literature. The episode explores Bethany's journey from writing her first story as a child to becoming a debut author with her middle grade novel, Harper Wells Renegade Timeline Officer. Bethany shares insights into her experiences, including the creation and publication of her graphic novel publishing house, Perenti Press. She offers valuable advice on navigating the publication process, writing strategies, and the importance of reading. Listeners also get an exclusive preview of Perenti Press's upcoming projects and tips for pitching submissions. Additionally, author...
2025-08-2750 minThe Book DealThe importance of writing residencies, enjoying uninterrupted time to think and write, and eating ALL the cheeseIn this episode of the Book Deal podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Natasha Rai share their experiences from their writing residency at Magnetic Island, Northern Queensland. Joined by other writers as part of the Roderick Centre's Writers on the Reef Residency, Tina and Natasha discuss the inspirational impact of the island on their work, the productivity from uninterrupted writing time, and the joy of being part of a supportive writers’ community. They talk about their respective projects, the benefits of the residency, and chat with Nicole Crowe, who manages the residency program. The episode also features insights on what th...
2025-08-2032 minThe Book DealThe Takeover: Michelle See-Tho on winning a major literary prize, what happens behind the scenes after the win, and invaluable editing tipsIn this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, host Natasha Rai interviews Michelle See-Tho, the 2023 Penguin Literary Prize winner. Michelle discusses her debut novel, 'Jade and Emerald,' the thematic elements of class, race, loneliness, and family in her story, and her journey from ideation to publication. She reflects on her experience in the Kill Your Darlings Mentors Program, which helped shape her manuscript, and the subsequent process of winning the prestigious Penguin Literary Prize. The conversation covers the intricate details of structural and line edits, cover design deliberations, and the ensuing publicity and launch events. Michelle also shares...
2025-08-1342 min
Yellow Shelf PodcastThe Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan & Madeleine Cleary.The Book Deal Podcast is co-hosted by authors Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary. A thoughtful and empowering podcast for aspiring writers. It succeeds by blending honest storytelling about the authors’ journeys with expert insights from guests, all conveyed through a warm and engaging tone. Each episode is a mix of inspiration, practical advice, and down-to-earth camaraderie. Launched in mid 2024, episodes feature a blend of personal updates, creative tangents, and interviews with authors and industry professional. The perfect podcast show for motivation and inspiration for emerging writers, helping them pave their own pathwa...
2025-08-1112 minThe Book DealBookselling behind the scenes: author tips and advice with bookseller and writer Charlotte GuestHosts Tina Strachan and Madeliene Cleary interview Charlotte Guest, a writer and bookseller based in Geelong, Victoria. The conversation covers Charlotte's journey from an outdoor-loving child to managing an indie bookstore and obtaining a PhD in Creative Writing. Charlotte offers an inside look into the world of book selling, including the processes of ordering, the importance of face-to-face interaction with authors, and the small details that contribute to a bookshop’s success. The discussion also touches on the significance of events and the challenges of small bookstores in hosting them. Additionally, Charlotte discusses her experience being shortlisted for the Bo...
2025-08-061h 01The Book DealDebut author Carla Salmon on writing fiery stories for the young adult marketHost Tina Strachan chats to debut author Carla Salmon about the journey of her young adult mystery thriller, 'We Saw What You Started'. Carla discusses her path from the initial idea to signing with publisher Pan MacMillan. She highlights crucial aspects like the structural evolution of her manuscript, the importance of fleshing out characters, and the challenges of reaching young readers in the current market. Carla also shares practical advice on marketing and building professional platforms for aspiring authors. The episode includes a segment by Tanya Scott about her debut novel, 'Stillwater'.00:00 Introduction to the Book Deal...
2025-07-3051 minThe Book DealNatasha, Tina and Madeleine are titillated by their ONE YEAR of The Book DealCelebrating One Year of The Book Deal Podcast: Memorable Moments and InsightsIn this special one-year anniversary episode of The Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai reflect on their favorite moments and insightful interviews from the past year. They share their most memorable quotes from guest authors, delve into the nuances of measuring success as a debut author, and discuss the benefits of having an agent. The episode is filled with laughter and gratitude, as the hosts celebrate their journey and the wonderful community they’ve built.This week's Debut in...
2025-07-2349 minThe Book DealThe Takeover: Holly Brunnbauer on securing a book deal and social media tips that create true connectionsIn this episode of the Book Deal podcast hosted by Natasha Rai, emerging fiction author Holly Brunnbauer discusses her path to publication, detailing her journey from blogging and copywriting to becoming a published author. Holly provides insights into her debut rom-com 'What Did I Miss?', her character development process, and the challenges she faced in getting a book deal with Harper Collins. She also shares her social media strategies and gives valuable advice for aspiring authors on obtaining professional feedback and engaging with the writing community. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the publication process and practical...
2025-07-161h 02The Book DealWriterly breakthroughs and author disappointmentIn this episode of the Book Deal podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary share a candid and engaging discussion about their current writing projects and experiences. Tina talks about her recent book release, 'Neeka and the Storm,' and the whirlwind of emotions she felt around its launch. Meanwhile, Madeleine opens up about her progress on her second book, the challenges of writing a crime narrative, and her breakthrough in plotting. The episode also delves into the broader writing community, touching on the feelings of disappointment many authors face around royalty statements, rejections, and the competitive nature of...
2025-07-0946 min