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
  
  

Join Chelle and Leanne as they sit down with debut memoirist Daniel Nour to discuss his sharp, funny, and deeply moving book, How to Dodge Flying Sandals. Part coming-of-age tale, part cultural reflection, Daniel's memoir captures what it's like to grow up queer, Egyptian, and Australian—all while navigating family expectations, church traditions, and the sometimes absurd challenge of figuring out who you are.

With humor, honesty, and compassion, Daniel shares how writing his story helped him reconcile his own identity, forgive himself (and others), and carve out a space where he belongs.

In this episode:

• The metaphor behind "dodging flying sandals"—and what it reveals about cultural discipline, expectations, and resilience

• How humor became Daniel's coping mechanism and storytelling superpower

• Balancing family love with personal authenticity, even when values clash

• Why representation matters, and how migrant voices challenge mainstream stereotypes in Australia

• The concept of "letting in" rather than "coming out" when it comes to sharing your true self

Discussion prompt:
What expectations have you had to "dodge" in order to become more fully yourself? Share your thoughts with us on Instagram or in the book club—we'd love to hear your story.

PS: If you enjoy memoirs that blend humor, identity, and heart, How to Dodge Flying Sandals is a must-read. And keep an ear out for Daniel—this is just the beginning of his storytelling journey.

• The inspiration behind By Her Hand and the real historical women who helped shape Freda's character
• Marion's transition from a globe-trotting journalist to a debut novelist—and why fiction was her next big leap
• The painstaking research, rewrites, and pandemic pivots that shaped the novel (plus a cameo from Marion's kids learning medieval history at home!)
• How Marion balanced historical accuracy with vivid storytelling, from Old English poetry to the book's striking cover design by Sandy Cole
• The emotional journey of Freda: from fear and anger to courage and self-expression
• Why learning the rules—and then breaking them—is essential for writers and dreamers alike
• Marion's advice for anyone struggling to find their voice or push back against expectations

• The story behind The Sex Lives of Married Women and why Saman wanted to write about female friendship and vulnerability
• What it means to be a third culture kid—and how that shapes relationships, identity, and storytelling
• Navigating cultural dynamics in modern marriages and friendships
• The challenges (and importance!) of writing about sex, pleasure, and real intimacy in long-term relationships
• How modern communication tools like WhatsApp and LinkedIn make their way into fiction—and real life
• Why female friendships matter, and how honesty, humor, and support can get us through even the toughest times
• Saman's hopes for the book to inspire readers to have braver, more open conversations—about sex, relationships, and everything in between.
  
  

• Why pain is a universal part of being human—and how resisting it can keep us stuck
• How to use your values as a compass, not a checklist
• The real reason change feels so hard (spoiler: staying stuck can be even harder!)
• Parenting truths: breaking old patterns, repairing ruptures, and embracing imperfection
• The power of self-compassion, mindfulness, and making choices that align with what matters most
• Dr. Emily's own journey writing "Unstuck" and balancing life as a parent, professional, and author

• The unique structure of "The Elements" series and how each novella brings a new perspective
• Why Boyne's approach to responsibility and redemption feels so real (and sometimes hits a little too close to home)
• How the books challenge our ideas of good, bad, judgment, and compassion
• The emotional rollercoaster of connecting with characters who make questionable choices for all-too-human reasons
• Cliffhangers that will have you reaching for the next book (trust us: buy the whole set!)
• Why this series is one of Chelle and Leanne's top recommendations—and the kind of stories that linger long after the last page