Talking Aussie Books

Dianne Blacklock is the author of ten novels and one of Australia's best-loved story-tellers. A freelance editor and writing coach, Di was and still is at the forefront of the rise in popularity of contemporary womens' stories. Tune in as I chat to Di about her latest offering, "Jack and Kate", writing and much more.

In this Episode, I chat to Sarah Myles about her brand new book, "The Wolf Hour". A gripping, contemporary story about the lengths a family will go to save one of their own and what moments of crises reveal about our true selves. Set in war-torn Uganda, Sarah's book examines the dichotomy that is Africa: on the one hand, a country of incredible beauty and grace; and on the other, one with an ugly underbelly of violence, political tension and corruption. Listen in as Sarah and I chat about her experiences in Africa and the idea that sparked this compelling novel.

Although fairly new to the Australian publishing scene, Penelope Janu has well and truly made her mark with three novels in two years as well as winning the XO Romance Prize in 2017 for her most recent novel, "On the Same Page" (Brio Books). Listen in as I chat to this clever lady and find out what inspires her writing, her reading habits and much more.

In the first episode of 2019, find out why everyone is talking about "The Missing Pieces of Sophie McCarthy", Ber Carroll's latest novel. Hear from much-loved author Ber as we chat about her thought-provoking, if somewhat chilling examination, of the ripple effect one tragic incident can have on the lives of many: the victim, the perpetrator, as well as their families and friends. A compelling and insightful book you'll want to gobble up in one sitting!

In this episode, I chat to another fabulous debut Aussie novelist, Joanna Nell. Her novel, "The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village" is a charming and wonderfully funny novel which explores ageing, friendships, love and family in a thoroughly modern context. This novel will have you laughing out loud and glued to your seat until the very last page. I loved this book and so will you!

If you had time again, would you live the same life twice? Would you make the same choices? This is the dilemma Gracie faces when a car accident leaves her unable to remember who she is, including the man she is meant to be marrying in three months time. Join me as I chat to the wonderful Vanessa Carnevale, whose novel "The Memories that Make Us" will leave you breathless with anticipation watching Gracie try to piece her life together after this tragic event.

Lucy Marrett is a young Australian author whose debut novel "The Way I See It" is sparking conversations around mental illness and what it's like to walk in the shoes of someone who suffers from debilitating anxiety. It's not a self-help book or manual about how to deal with anxiety, but a realistic portrayal of the fight to do the most basic things in spite of the condition. Listen in as I chat to Lucy about her inspiring book, her motivation and much more.

Tricia Stringer is one of Australia's best selling authors. She has won multiple awards for her rural romance novels and has also published historical fiction. Her latest novel, "Table for Eight" is a delightful and uplifting contemporary novel taking readers on a cruise to the South Pacific, following the story of a group of passengers who become unlikely dining companions. Listen in as I chat to Tricia about her inspiration for this book, her characters and much more.

When a terrible tragedy changes Alice Hart's life forever, she goes to live on a flower farm with the grandmother she never knew and learns the language of flowers to help her say things she cannot speak of. Join me as I chat to Holly Ringland, author of the remarkable debut novel, "The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart" and find out why everyone wants to read this book.

Shirley's debut novel, "The Secrets We Keep" is a quintessentially Australian story, that captures the essence and spirit of the the remote mining town of Kalgoorlie in Western Australia. A story of love, loss and hope, this novel will have you spellbound until the very end.