What does it take to turn a lifelong dream into a published novel?

In this episode, author Libby Tanner shares the story behind her debut rom-com, Better Than Gelato, and the journey that took her from aspiring writer to traditionally published author. Libby opens up about balancing family life, work, and creativity while navigating the challenges of querying literary agents, handling rejection, and staying committed to her writing goals.

Drawing on her background in PR and journalism, Libby discusses how communication skills helped prepare her for the realities of book promotion, public speaking, and building an author platform. She also shares how real-life experiences inspired her characters and why perseverance became one of the most important factors in her success.

Whether you're an aspiring author, a book lover, or someone pursuing a creative dream, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration for the journey.

In This Episode

• Libby's early passion for storytelling and writing

• Why she chose a practical career path before pursuing fiction

• The role of writing education and mentorship in her publishing success

• How her PR and journalism background prepared her for life as an author

• The process of querying literary agents and securing a publishing deal

• Navigating rejection and maintaining motivation

• Drawing inspiration from real people and experiences

• Balancing writing with family and everyday responsibilities

• Building an author career and connecting with readers

• A preview of her upcoming novel, Bigger Than Versace

How do you turn a lifelong dream into reality? In this inspiring author interview, debut novelist Samantha Ross shares her incredible journey from aspiring writer to signing a publishing deal with Penguin Random House for her novel Possible Springs.

Samantha reveals how manifestation, visualization, resilience, and unwavering belief helped her navigate years of rejection and ultimately achieve her publishing goals. She also dives into the creative inspiration behind Possible Springs, including Australian landscapes, paranormal experiences, 90s music influences, and the unique blend of genres that make her debut novel stand out.

Whether you're an aspiring author, creative entrepreneur, or someone pursuing a big dream, this conversation offers practical insights on overcoming self-doubt, embracing authenticity, and staying committed to your vision.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

✅ How Samantha Ross developed her passion for writing from childhood

✅ The real role manifestation and visualization played in her publishing success

✅ How rejection became part of her creative growth journey

✅ The inspiration behind her debut novel Possible Springs

✅ How paranormal experiences influenced her storytelling

✅ The process of landing a book deal with Penguin Random House

✅ Tips for aspiring authors seeking traditional publishing success

✅ Why authenticity is one of the most important tools for writers and creatives

Books, Authors & Resources Mentioned

• All the Colours of Dark by Chris Whitaker
• Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
• Jeff Lindsay (Author of the Dexter Series)
• Penguin Random House

Australian-American novelist Mary Colussi joins the podcast to share the remarkable journey behind her debut novel, Touch Grass. From growing up between Australia and the United States to navigating the challenges of publishing, Mary offers an honest look at the realities of becoming a published author.

In this episode, we discuss how her multicultural background shaped her storytelling, the inspiration behind Touch Grass, and how themes of digital disconnection and the search for authentic human connection became central to her work. Mary also shares her writing process, completing a manuscript in just three months, overcoming rejection, and ultimately winning the prestigious Penguin Literary Prize.

Whether you're an aspiring author, a creative professional, or someone interested in the publishing industry, this conversation provides valuable insights into resilience, creativity, and building a successful writing career.

In this episode;

• Mary Colussi's Australian-American upbringing
• Life in New York and returning to Australia
• The inspiration behind Touch Grass
• Writing a novel in three months
• Dealing with rejection and literary competitions
• Winning the Penguin Literary Prize
• The importance of mentorship and writing communities
• Publishing industry insights for emerging authors
• Australian culture and its influence on storytelling
• Building resilience as a writer

International bestselling romance author Leeanne Slade joins the podcast to discuss her incredible journey from maternity leave and corporate life to becoming a full-time author with bestselling audiobooks, a global fanbase, and film adaptations in development.

In this episode, Leeanne shares how she built a successful career through Audible Originals, why romance novels continue to resonate with readers worldwide, and how authenticity, emotion, and perseverance shaped her writing journey.

We dive into audiobook publishing, romance writing, imposter syndrome, motherhood, creativity, reviews, and the realities of building a modern author career.

If you love romance books, audiobooks, publishing insights, author interviews, BookTok, or creative entrepreneurship, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical advice.

Topics discussed:
• Transitioning from corporate work to full-time author
• The audiobook-first publishing model with Audible
• Romance writing and emotionally authentic storytelling
• Balancing motherhood, creativity, and mental health
• Dealing with reviews, rejection, and imposter syndrome
• Writing inspiration from music and real-life experiences
• The power of female collaboration and writing communities
• Film adaptations and future writing projects

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#LeeanneSlade #RomanceBooks #Audiobooks #AuthorPodcast #BookTok

Award-winning author Liz Flanagan joins the podcast to discuss her remarkable journey from writing beloved children’s fantasy books to publishing adult historical fiction. In this episode, Liz shares insights into the creative process behind her latest novel, When We Were Divided, set during the English Civil War, and opens up about genre shifts, research, publishing, editing, and finding confidence as a writer.

We explore writing across genres, historical fiction research, independent bookshops, publishing in the UK, creativity during the pandemic, and the importance of writing stories that truly matter to you.

If you’re an aspiring author, fan of historical fiction, fantasy books, or interested in the publishing industry, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.

Topics discussed:
• Transitioning from children’s fantasy to adult historical fiction
• The inspiration behind When We Were Divided
• English Civil War research and surprising historical facts
• Writing during the pandemic and overcoming self-doubt
• The role of editors, publishing teams, and writing communities
• Independent bookstores and reader connections
• Genre hopping, pseudonyms, and creative freedom
• Advice for aspiring writers and authors

Books Mentioned:
• When We Were Divided
• The Wildsmith series

#LizFlanagan #HistoricalFiction #AuthorPodcast #WritingCommunity #FantasyBooks

Bestselling romantic comedy author Hannah Doyle joins the podcast to share her inspiring journey from celebrity journalism to becoming a published novelist. Hannah opens up about breaking into the publishing world, balancing motherhood with writing, navigating editors and industry changes, and creating her latest rom-com with a sci-fi twist, The Long Haul.

If you're an aspiring author, romance reader, or publishing enthusiast, this episode is packed with honest insights into writing careers, creativity, persistence, and modern publishing.

In This Episode

• Hannah Doyle’s transition from journalism to fiction writing
• How celebrity interviews shaped her storytelling skills
• The realities of traditional publishing and finding an agent
• Balancing writing with motherhood and family life
• Behind the scenes of writing romantic comedy novels
• Creating The Long Haul and adding a time-loop element
• The role of editors, cover design, and book marketing
• Why independent bookstores matter more than ever
• Advice for aspiring writers and debut authors
• The future of romance publishing and genre mashups

Connect with Hannah Doyle

Instagram: @hannahdoyleauthor
TikTok: @hannahdoyleauthor

If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with fellow readers and writers.

In this episode, we sit down with UK author Andi Epimoni—founder of Meet Cute BookFest—to unpack her journey from entering a Twitter writing competition to building a full-time career in romance publishing.

Andi shares how she transitioned from literary fiction to commercial romance, the strategy behind writing under multiple pen names, and what it really takes to succeed in today’s fast-moving publishing industry. We also dive into the creation of Meet Cute BookFest, a festival designed to bring romance authors and readers together in real life.

Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a romance reader, or curious about the publishing world, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and practical advice.

💡 What We Cover

• Andi’s path from Twitter writing contest to published author
• Transitioning from literary fiction to commercial romance
• Writing under multiple pen names (Lauren Forsyth & A.L. Michael)
• The realities of digital publishing and writing at speed
• Finding an agent and navigating the submissions processBalancing writing with full-time work and motherhood
• The story behind Meet Cute BookFest
• Challenges of running a book festival and future plansIndustry trends: AI, self-publishing & community
• Handling rejection and building a sustainable writing career

If you're enjoying these episodes and hearing from your favourite authors, please hit the subscribe button and leave a comment!

In this episode of Five Authors, Five Questions, author Jess Kitchen dives into the power of authenticity in writing, sharing how emotional honesty and personal experiences can transform storytelling.

Jess discusses why writers should focus on finishing their first draft before editing, how trauma and lived experiences shape compelling fiction, and the importance of building real connections with readers. She also shares insights from fellow author Jo Dixon, along with a few unexpected research moments (including naked mole rats!).

Whether you're an aspiring writer, an indie author, or simply passionate about storytelling, this episode is packed with practical writing advice and inspiration.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Australian author Anna Johnston to explore her remarkable journey from health promotion professional to internationally recognised novelist—with a Netflix adaptation on the horizon.

Anna shares how deeply personal experiences, including her relationship with her grandfather and her later ADHD diagnosis, have shaped her voice as a storyteller. We dive into the origins of her debut novel, the realities of the publishing world, and the resilience it takes to turn rejection into momentum.

From building a writing community to navigating rapid success, Anna offers an honest and insightful look into the creative process—along with a behind-the-scenes glimpse into her latest book When Lemons Give You Life and what’s coming next.

This episode is a must-listen for aspiring writers, creatives, and anyone interested in the power of authentic storytelling.

What we cover in this episode:

• Anna’s early love of storytelling and creative beginnings
• Her transition into aged care and how it inspired her debut novel
• Finding her voice through writing courses and community
• The journey to publication and landing a Netflix option
• The realities of editing, feedback, and rejection
• Writing authentic, diverse, and emotionally rich characters
• The personal story behind When Lemons Give You Life
• How her ADHD diagnosis transformed her creative process
• Upcoming projects, including her third book and book tour
• Why community and resilience are essential for writers

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss a conversation with inspiring authors and creatives.

Leave a review on Spotify or YouTube—it really helps others discover the show.

Share this episode with a friend, writer, or book lover who needs a little creative inspiration today.

And if Anna’s story resonated with you, check out her books and connect with her on social media to follow her journey.

In this episode of five authors five questions, we go behind the scenes with a Jodi McAlister to explore the real moments that shape a writing career—from unpublished scenes and unexpected inspiration to the advice that can change everything.

Discover how a new series emerged from lockdown conversations, why research matters (even down to sommelier-level detail), and how embracing imperfect first drafts can unlock creativity.

Whether you're an aspiring writer or a curious reader, this episode offers valuable insights into the craft and career of storytelling.