Kill City

By Leigh Dillon & Helen M

Australian crime fiction is our M.O. The Kill City podcast is all about Australian crime writing, crime books and the Australian crime writing industry.

Tune in for author intervie

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FAQs about Kill City:

How many episodes does Kill City have?

The podcast currently has 33 episodes available.

Kill City episodes:

September 15, 2026 The 2026 Davitt Award winners announced (Bonus Episode)
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The 2026 Davitt Award winners have been announced, and in this bonus episode we look at these thoroughly deserving winners.

A huge congratulations to the below winners of this year's awards.
Learn more about the Davitt Awards and Sisters in Crime.

Best Adult Fiction: Joanna Jenkins, The Bluff (Allen & Unwin)
Best Nonfiction: Kate Wild, The Red House (Allen & Unwin)
Best Young Adult Novel: Amy Doak, What Have They done to Liza McLean? (Penguin Random House Australia)
Best Children’s Novel: Sarah Armstrong, Run (Hardie Grant Children’s)
Highly Commended – Children’s Novel: Amelia Mellor, Oceanforged: The Wicked Ship (Simon & Schuster Australia)
Best Debut: Angie Faye Martin, Melaleuca (HQ Fiction)
Kerry Greenwood Readers’ Choice Award: Sally Hepworth, Mad Mabel (Macmillan Australia)
Booktopia Affiliate Program
The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.
Disclaimer
The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.
www.killcitypodcast.com.au
...more
11min
September 13, 2026Sam Elliott in the spotlight - Part Two
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In part two of our conversation with Sam Elliott, we talk about how he crafts his characters, including the lead character of his novel, Haze, Dahlia Turner (and 2027's Deep Fake).
He also discusses the solitary journey that is writing, the process of writing and re-writing and how his preferred kind of feedback is "brutal honesty, scorched earth... don't sugarcoat anything."
Plus, he talks about not letting anyone "dim your shine." It's an open, honest and insightful chat.
Sam's debut novel, Haze
Haze, by Sam Elliott
Sam's podcast
The Write Way (hosted by Sam)
About the Write Way
A program founded and hosted by author and interviewer Samuel Elliott, that features a broad and disparate range of writer folk guests, ranging from international best-selling authors, to debut novelists or those as-yet unpublished writers.
Regardless of what stage of their career they might be at, all of them are united by a love of writing, as well as having overcome some brutal challenges to get to where they are. This program will discuss not only each guest’s latest and greatest work or project, but also delve into what they’ve faced and conquered along their way to inevitable success.
Booktopia Affiliate Program
The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.
Disclaimer
The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.
www.killcitypodcast.com.au
...more
38min
September 06, 2026Sam Elliott in the spotlight - Part One
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In this episode Helen and Leigh speak to Sydney crime writer, Sam Elliott, who shares his journey from childhood obsessions to publishing his debut novel 'Haze'. Sam discusses character creation, researching for authenticity, and the intense process of bringing a story to life, including the impact of editing and the significance of Australian settings and themes.
Samuel details his writing process and the importance of community, how he handles feedback, and his upcoming projects including the novel Deep Fake. He also discusses the challenges and rewards of a writing career and offers advice for aspiring authors.

Sam's debut novel, Haze
Haze, by Sam Elliott
Sam's podcast
The Write Way (hosted by Sam)
About the Write Way
A program founded and hosted by author and interviewer Samuel Elliott, that features a broad and disparate range of writer folk guests, ranging from international best-selling authors, to debut novelists or those as-yet unpublished writers.
Regardless of what stage of their career they might be at, all of them are united by a love of writing, as well as having overcome some brutal challenges to get to where they are. This program will discuss not only each guest’s latest and greatest work or project, but also delve into what they’ve faced and conquered along their way to inevitable success.

Booktopia Affiliate Program
The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.
Disclaimer
The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.
www.killcitypodcast.com.au
...more
47min
August 30, 2026Sarah Bailey in the spotlight - Part Two
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In part two of our conversation with Sarah Bailey, we talk about the relationship she has with the team around her; her agent, editor and publisher and how this helps shape her work.

We talk about Ai and its impact, and then - as we always do - we finish part two with our quick and the curious questions... which is always fun!
Books by Sarah Bailey
The Gemma Woodstock series
The Dark Lake
Into the Night
Where the Dead Go
Body of Lies
The Oli Groves series
The Housemate
Click
He Read, She Read podcast (with J.P Pomare)
https://www.sarahbaileyauthor.com/
Booktopia Affiliate Program
The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.
Disclaimer
The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.
www.killcitypodcast.com.au
...more
31min
August 23, 2026Sarah Bailey in the spotlight - Part One
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In this episode we speak to and explore the journey of Sarah Bailey, acclaimed crime writer known for her gripping crime thrillers. With a background in PR and communications, Sarah transitioned from a successful corporate career to focus on her writing.
Books by Sarah Bailey
The Gemma Woodstock series
The Dark Lake
Into the Night
Where the Dead Go
Body of Lies
The Oli Groves series
The Housemate
Click
He Read, She Read podcast (with J.P Pomare)
https://www.sarahbaileyauthor.com/
Booktopia Affiliate Program
The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.
Disclaimer
The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.
www.killcitypodcast.com.au
...more
38min
August 16, 2026Crime & Youth - Getting kids hooked on books
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In this episode, Leigh and Helen explore the vibrant landscape of Australian children's and young adult crime and mystery books. They discuss award-winning titles, influential authors like John Marsden, and upcoming releases, highlighting how these stories shape the next generation of readers and writers.
Children's Book Week 2026
https://cbca.org.au/childrens-book-week/
Books we discussed
The books of John Marsden
The books of Amy Doak
The books of Aaron Blabey
We saw what you started, by Carla Salmon
True South, by Gisela Ervin-Ward
Run, by Sarah Armstrong
The books of Kate Emery
Key Topics
Australian children's and YA crime books
John Marsden's influence on Australian literature
Upcoming Australian crime book awards and nominations
The role of mystery in young adult fiction
Notable Australian authors and series in YA crime
The importance of nurturing young readers in the crime genre.
Keywords
Australian children's books, young adult crime fiction, John Marsden, Children's Book Week, Australian authors, mystery books, YA series, crime adjacent stories, Australian literature, book awards
Booktopia Affiliate Program
The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.
Disclaimer
The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.
www.killcitypodcast.com.au
...more
23min
August 09, 2026Dinuka McKenzie in the spotlight - Part Two
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In the second part of our conversation with Australian crime writer Dinuka Mackenzie, we dive into her new novel, She Lied First and continue our chat as she shares her journey from environmental planner to acclaimed crime.
Author of the Kate Miles series, featuring a female detective navigating the chaotic world of regional policing and motherhood. With her debut novel, The Torrent, winning the prestigious HarperCollins Banjo Prize in 2020, she has proven her talent in crafting compelling stories.
Dinuka's books
The Torrent (Kate Miles, book one)
Taken (Kate Miles, book two)
Tipping Point (Kate Miles, book three)
She Lied First (standalone, released July 2026)
Booktopia Affiliate Program
The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.
Disclaimer
The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.
www.killcitypodcast.com.au
...more
35min
August 02, 2026Dinuka McKenzie in the spotlight - Part One
Send us Fan Mail
In this episode, we're joined by Australian crime writer Dinuka Mackenzie, who shares her journey from environmental planner to author, her writing process, and insights into her series featuring Detective Kate Miles. Discover how she crafts suspense, develops characters, and explores themes of family, identity, and resilience.
Dinuka's books
The Torrent (Kate Miles, book one)
Taken (Kate Miles, book two)
Tipping Point (Kate Miles, book three)
She Lied First (standalone, released July 2026)
Key Topics

Dinuka Mackenzie's transition from environmental planning to writing
The creation and development of the Kate Miles series
Balancing series and standalone novels
Research and authenticity in crime fiction
Character-driven storytelling and emotional depth
Raising stakes and maintaining suspense
Representation of multicultural Australia in her books
Writing process: from first draft to publication
Reader feedback and its impact on her writing
Future projects and genre exploration
Chapters
Introduction and guest background
The journey from environmental planner to author
Writing the first draft and industry learnings
Reactions to her debut and early success
Deep dive into the Kate Miles series
Themes of family, loyalty, and personal struggle
Writing the third Kate Miles novel, Tipping Point
Keywords
Crime fiction, Australian authors, writing process, character development, series writing, psychological thriller, crime series, author interview, storytelling, crime novels
Booktopia Affiliate Program
The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.
Disclaimer
The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.
www.killcitypodcast.com.au
...more
52min
July 26, 2026Christine Gregory in the spotlight - Part Two
Send us Fan Mail
In this engaging conversation, Christine Gregory shares her unique journey into crime fiction, discussing her experiences as a writer, the development of her novels, and the intricate relationships that shape her stories.
She delves into the importance of character development, the challenges of writing from multiple perspectives, and the dynamics of father-daughter relationships in her work. Christine also reflects on her writing process, the significance of mentorship, and the journey from manuscript to publication, offering insights into the realities of being a writer in Australia.
Christine Gregory discusses her evolution as a writer, focusing on her improved dialogue skills and the development of her characters in her second book, 'The Informant.' She shares insights on writing from diverse perspectives, the importance of a supportive writing community, and the flow state that enhances her writing process. Additionally, she reflects on reader feedback and the potential for a film adaptation of her work, concluding with a light-hearted rapid-fire round.
Christine Gregory's books
The Informant
The Community
Chapters
The Journey to Publication: From Manuscript to Book
Mentorship and Growth as a Writer
Reflections on Writing Habits and Lessons Learned
Refining Dialogue and Writing Habits
Exploring 'The Informant' and Character Development
Writing Characters with Diverse Lived Experiences
The Flow State in Writing
Building a Support Network for Writers
Reader Feedback and Reception
Casting Characters for Film Adaptation
Desert Island Book Choice
Rapid Fire Round: Quick Questions
Booktopia Affiliate Program
The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.
Disclaimer
The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.
www.killcitypodcast.com.au
...more
34min
July 19, 2026Christine Gregory in the spotlight
Send us Fan Mail
In this episode, Christine Gregory shares her journey from aspiring writer to published crime novelist, discussing her writing process, character development, research methods, and insights into the Australian crime fiction scene. A must-listen for aspiring authors and crime fiction fans alike.
Christine Gregory's books
The Informant
The Community
Chapters
Introduction to Christine Gregory and Her Journey
The Community: A Deep Dive into Characters and Setting
Exploring Perspectives: Multiple Viewpoints in Crime Fiction
Fathers and Daughters: Complex Relationships in The Community
Writing Process: From Idea to Manuscript
Research and Realism in Crime Writing
The Journey to Publication: From Manuscript to Book
Mentorship and Growth as a Writer
Reflections on Writing Habits and Lessons Learned
Booktopia Affiliate Program
The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!

At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too.
Disclaimer
The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy.
www.killcitypodcast.com.au
...more
38min

FAQs about Kill City:

How many episodes does Kill City have?

The podcast currently has 33 episodes available.