As a child, Candice Fox knew her family wasn't what most people would consider normal.  Their Christmas included lunch at Long Bay jail, where her father worked (R).

At home, Candice's mother Ocean was busy rescuing lost people, injured native animals, and bringing home odd things from the council clean-up.

In one 5-year period, Ocean fostered more than 140 children.  To escape the chaos of home, Candice would immerse herself in her mum's collection of illustrated true crime stories.Then she began writing her own. She grew up to become one of the world's best-selling crime authors.

Further information

Originally broadcast in March, 2024.

Candice’s novels High Wire and Fire With Fire are now being adapted for the screen.

This episode of Conversations was produced by Nicola Harrison. Executive producer was Carmel Rooney.

It explores writing, books, animals, Australian animals, wildlife rescue, conservation, childhood memories, true crime, crime novels, crime writing, foster families, foster children, blended families, how to become an author, books.

To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.