The Bookshop Detectives by Gareth & Louise Ward

Step into the charming world of The Bookshop Detective with Chelle and Leanne as they chat with authors (and real-life couple) Louise and Gareth Ward — owners of Wardini Books in New Zealand and the creative minds behind the Tea and Cake and Death series. Blending their backgrounds as former UK police officers with their love of storytelling, they've created a cozy crime world where mystery meets heart, humour, and a touch of small-town chaos.

In this episode, they share the real-life inspiration behind their beloved characters Garth, Eloise, and Stevie the dog, how their bookshop community became part of their fictional world, and what it's really like to write crime fiction with your spouse.

You'll hear:

• How policing inspired their approach to plotting, clues, and keeping readers guessing

• The origins of their real-life Battle of the Book Clubs (and how it became a key scene in the books)

• Why cozy crime strikes the perfect balance between danger and delight

• What it's like to co-write a novel — chapter by chapter — without losing your marriage (or your sense of humour)

• The joy and chaos of running an independent bookshop that feels like family

Discussion prompt:
If you could set a cozy crime story anywhere, where would it be — and who would your unlikely detective be? Tell us on Instagram or in the book club!

The Introvert's Guide to Leaving the House: Real Talk on Social Anxiety, Self-Acceptance & Connection with Jenny Valentish

Step into the quietly chaotic world of social survival with Chelle and Leanne as they chat with journalist and author Jenny Valentish about her brilliant and funny new book, The Introvert's Guide to Leaving the House. Written for introverts, "awkwards," "sociophobes," and everyone who's ever felt drained by small talk, Jenny's book is packed with real-life strategies, relatable stories, and a good dose of humour.

In this episode, Jenny opens up about what it really means to live (and thrive) as an introvert in an extrovert's world—covering everything from practical "game plans" for social scenarios to the deeper roots of social reluctance, self-protection, and connection.

You'll hear:

• How Jenny's own experiences with anxiety, addiction, and sobriety shaped the book

• Why introverts don't need to be "fixed"—just better equipped with their own strategies

• The difference between solitude and loneliness (and how to find your sweet spot)

• What "shoulder-to-shoulder" socialising is and why it's a game changer

• How social anxiety, ADHD, and neurodivergence overlap in unexpected ways

• Why "show up, then slip out early" might be your new party motto

• The surprising role of spirituality and ecstatic dance in her journey toward self-connection

• Jenny's take on humour, authenticity, and the power of books that find you at the right time

Discussion prompt:
Are you more of an introvert, extrovert—or a mix of both? What helps you recharge or feel more comfortable in social settings? Share your thoughts with us on Instagram or in the book club!

• The real-life family history that inspired The Butterfly Women—and how Madeleine's infamous ancestor became a character in her novel
• What it took to research Melbourne's notorious Little Lon district (spoiler: years of digging through archives and old newspapers!)
• The challenges and joys of balancing historical accuracy with page-turning storytelling
• How the book evolved from a quiet literary novel to a full-on murder mystery, complete with red herrings and footy-mum sleuths
• The power and agency of women—even in the toughest circumstances—and the entrepreneurial spirit of Melbourne's brothel keepers
• Madeleine's writing process, from train commutes to tight deadlines, and her advice for aspiring authors
• A sneak peek at Madeleine's next project, inspired by another family mystery