'I was still in that really optimistic, sort of naive, wonderful space as an early writer, where you think everything you write is just publishable.' Debut author Jonathon Shannon shares his journey from aspiring writer to published author – including the decision to join James and Ashley's writers' group. 

We discuss how he took his debut romcom from a four-word pitch to a publishing contract, the rejection of his first manuscript, and his transition to writing romantic comedy alongside his wife, author Elodie Cheesman. 

Plus, do you have a book you're saving to read before you die? 

Jonathon Shannon is a Sydney-based writer and creative director. His work has been recognised at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, screened at the St Kilda Film Festival, and is housed in the permanent archives of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. Bound to Happen is his debut novel. 

Get your copy of Bound to Happen or from your local bookshop.

Upcoming events 

• James is in conversation with Hayley Scrivenor as part of the National Young Writers Festival, 28 Sept to 1 Oct
• Ashley is appearing in-person at the Mount Beauty Writers Festival, happening Saturday 7 October. 
• Terror Australis Readers and Writers Festival is happening October 26 to 29, and Ashley will be part of two days of panel sessions happening that weekend in the Huon Valley, Tasmania
• Online: Creative Nonfiction – Ashley is teaching her six-week online Writing NSW course starting 30 October
• Crafting Narrative Drive – an in-person workshop with Ashley at Avid Reader in Brisbane, Sunday 26 November, 10am-1pm

Books and authors discussed in this episode:

• 'I’m the Wrong Ghost for This Haunting' by Ren Arcamone
• Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld
• A Mile Down by David Vann 
• A Burglar's Guide to the City by Geoff Manaugh
• The Time Traveller's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger
• Love, In Theory by Elodie Cheesman

Ashley's psychological thriller Dark Mode is out now! Learn more about it and get your copy.

James' novel Denizen is out now! Learn more about it and get your copy. 

Get in touch!

• ashleykalagianblunt.com
• jamesmckenziewatson.com
• Twitter: @AKalagianBlunt + @JamesMcWatson
• Instagram: @akalagianblunt + @jamesmcwatson