Mary-Clare Terrill is an Australian-Canadian author of historical fiction. Her debut historical romance novel, Maplecroft, is based on the true story of her great-grandparents and their lovingly preserved love letters: the first book in the Maplecroft family saga series. In episode 1 of 2, we chat about the writing process behind her new novel.

In this second of two episodes with Philadelphia based author C.J. Spataro, we discuss what it’s like to be a debut author later in life and how life experience can be the catalyst for inspiring story telling. C.J goes on to explain the role of research in fiction writing and how the idea of research can still be applied in genres such as fantasy and science fiction.

So sit back, relax and enjoy!

In this first of two episodes, we chat with Philadelphia based author C.J. Spataro about her recently released debut novel More Strange Than True. C.J. explains the inspirations for her story and how being a creative writing teacher has made her a better writer. She also provides advice for writers who are thinking of embarking on creative writing higher education. As an accomplished musician, C.J. goes on to explain the relationship between music and writing and how music can influence and inspire fiction.

So sit back, relax and enjoy!

In this second episode with Brisbane author Diane Clarke, we delve into Diane's background as a speech pathologist and how skills learned in this profession heightened her ability to listen to and observe human interaction and verbal and non-verbal communication, and how she uses these skills to develop lifelike dialogue in her stories. We delve further into the key elements to writing realistic and engaging dialogue and how stories should be driven by these authentic character interactions.

Some excellent writing tips for emerging writers.

So sit back, relax and enjoy!

In this episode, we welcome Brisbane author Diane Clarke who explains how her debut novel 'The Photograph' was inspired by the evacuations of children in London during world war 2 with the plot centred around a missing boy and the discovery of an old photograph which uncovers a dark family secret. Her second novel, 'The Bracelet' is a family drama and murder mystery due for release in March 2025. During the discussion, Diane breaks down her strategies for blending historical facts with fictional storylines and the importance of research to ensure authenticity. Finally, Diane describes her journey to publication, her disappointments, successes and learnings.

So sit back, relax and enjoy!

In the second episode with author Alicia Thompson, the topic of author marketing is explored. Alicia breaks down marketing strategies that have worked for her including speaking events and workshops, registering with corporate book buyers, planning regional library road trips, networking within the writing community, social media, getting reviews, and thinking outside the box in terms of book distribution. A great episode for authors ready to scale up their marketing.

So sit back, relax and enjoy!

This week's special guest is author Alica Thompson whose debut novel 'Something Else' was published in 2021 and her follow up crime novel 'Ex' was released in 2024. Alicia has a masters in creative writing and delivers workshops for emerging authors. In this episode, we explore the topics Alicia teaches including how to kick start your novel, exercising your writing muscles, and finding the plot. She also provides advice for authors who are considering delivering their own workshops or speaking events and how to approach libraries and other venues to host and market these events.

So sit back, relax and enjoy!

In this week's episode, Dr Jo Skinner returns to talk about how she uses long-distance running to clear her mind and problem solve story plot issues. She also shares some interesting insights into the similarities between running a marathon and writing a novel. In this second and final episode, Jo delves deeper into the social issues that inspire her writing including domestic violence, positive masculinity and role modelling appropriate behaviours, and gender equity. Finally, Jo breaks down the book category of 'Women's Fiction' and where she sits on the debate about defining genres.

So, sit back, relax, and enjoy!