Some authors become instant favourites. You see their name on a cover and you don’t even need to read the blurb — you just know you’ll pick it up.

In this episode of A Life in Chapters, I’m sharing nine authors I always read, no matter what they publish. From the emotional depth of Maggie O’Farrell to the puzzles of Anthony Horowitz, the comfort of Richard Osman, the atmosphere of Donna Tartt, and more — this is my eclectic list of trusted writers.

Along the way, I’ll talk about the themes that connect them, why we’re drawn to certain authors over and over, and what our “always read” list says about us as readers.

I’d love to know yours, too. You can share your list with me over on Patreon, where there’s a public post waiting for your favourite authors — and if you’d like to go deeper, this month’s Clarity Audio is all about The Power of Small Shifts.

📖 Show notes and transcript: alifeinchapters.com

🎧 Join the discussion and access Clarity Audios, a bookclub and more: patreon.com/alifeinchapters

So many people say, “I’m not creative.” Maybe you’ve said it yourself. But here’s the truth — you’re probably far more creative than you give yourself credit for.

In this episode of A Life in Chapters, I share why creativity isn’t just about art, music, or writing, but about the everyday ways we solve problems, make choices, and express ourselves. You’ll hear stories about hidden creativity, gentle encouragement to notice your own, and journaling prompts to help you see where creativity is already part of your life.

If you’ve ever dismissed yourself as “not the creative type,” this episode is for you.

✨ Journaling Prompts:

• Where in my life do I solve problems in a way that feels like “me”?
• What project or task has given me a sense of satisfaction recently?
• If I broadened my definition of creativity, where would I already see it?

📖 Show notes and more prompts: alifeinchapters.com

🎧 Support the podcast and access monthly Clarity Audios: patreon.com/alifeinchapters

Reading is often thought of as a solitary act — but something magical happens when we share stories with others. In this episode, I’m reflecting on the joy of book clubs, from my early days of studying English Literature at school and college, to the way modern clubs create connection, perspective, and laughter.

✨ In this episode:

• Why book clubs turn private reading into shared discovery
• How different perspectives deepen our understanding of stories
• The timeless role of book clubs in building community
• A few gentle reflection questions to explore your own relationship with reading together

And if you’d like to join a cosy, no-pressure book club of your own, you’re warmly invited into my Patreon community — where we combine seasonal journaling with a shared monthly read. This month, we’re diving into How to Solve Your Own Murder by Kristen Perrin. There’s still time to join us.

Find out more at alifeinchapters.com/patreon

For the full show notes and a transcript, head to alifeinchapters.com/podcast