In this episode of The Book Deal, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary pull back the curtain on their lives as writers, blending personal stories with creative insights. From kombucha-fueled weekends and quirky hobbies like cross stitching and paint-by-numbers to unexpected adventures and laugh-out-loud moments, they share the real-life rhythms behind the writing.

Listeners get an inside look at their current projects, upcoming book events, and a surprise writing residency on Magnetic Island. Along the way, Tina and Madeleine offer practical tips, relatable anecdotes, and a candid glimpse into the highs and lows of the writing process. Whether you're just starting out or deep into your writing journey, this warm, witty conversation will leave you inspired and entertained.

00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast

00:43 Saturday Night Vibes

01:13 Crafting and Creativity

02:48 The Importance of Relaxation

08:20 Madeleine's Recent Adventures

21:13 Upcoming Events and Exciting News

25:17 Dreaming of a Tropical Island Retreat

26:23 Vision Boards and Manifesting Success

26:55 Podcast Plans and Exciting Guests

30:51 Balancing Writing and Personal Life

31:48 Part-Time Work and Creative Goals

33:59 Writing Tips and Recommendations

37:29 Struggles and Solutions in Writing

42:30 A Fun and Tangential Chat

44:06 Wrapping Up and Listener Engagement

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You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here:

Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author
Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos
Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor

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In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, host Natasha Rai interviews Australian Tamil lawyer and author Shankari Chandran. They discuss Chandran's journey in writing and publishing, focusing on her novels 'Unfinished Business,' 'Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens,' and others. Chandran shares her experiences about navigating the literary world, dealing with rejections, and the importance of diversity in publishing. She also talks about her work's adaptation into TV series and offers advice for emerging writers. The episode sheds light on the challenges and triumphs faced by authors in the literary landscape.

00:00 Introduction to the Book Deal Podcast
00:34 Meet Shankari Chandran: Award-Winning Author
01:28 Discussing 'Unfinished Business'
03:11 The Journey of Writing and Publishing
07:36 The Role of Writing in Social Change
10:52 Navigating the Publishing Industry
18:05 Building a Writing Community
24:23 Introducing True South by Gisela Ervin-Ward
25:53 The Journey of Writing and Publishing
27:48 The Impact of Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens
39:59 Navigating Diversity in Publishing
46:44 Advice for Emerging Writers

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You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here:

Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author
Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos
Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor

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Behind the scenes and the reality of being a (newly) published author - with Tina Strachan, Madeleine Cleary, and Natasha Rai. 

Tina and Madeleine alongside our Takeover star, Natasha Rai, chat about their experiences as (newly) published authors. They each have prepared three surprise questions to ask each other, and of course Tina has prepared a spreadsheet to organise the asking of questions.

They discuss various aspects of the publishing journey, including the thrill of seeing their books on shelves, managing reviews on Goodreads, the challenges and joys of social media publicity, and their writing processes. The trio also delves into how publishing has impacted their day jobs and the value of having an agent. This episode is filled with valuable insights, playful banter, and practical tips for aspiring authors.

Nanna Croccles (1 May 2025, Scholastic Australia) by Susan Joy-Lu is this week's Debut in the Spotlight. 

00:00 Introduction to The Book Deal Podcast

00:45 Meet the Hosts and Special Guests

01:38 First Time as Published Authors

02:53 Bookshop Encounters and Author Experiences

08:53 Balancing Day Jobs and Writing Careers

13:00 The Role of Literary Agents

16:16 Navigating Reviews and Reader Feedback

19:39 Highs and Lows of Being a Published Author

24:15 Looking Forward to Book Two

24:52 Excitement and Anxieties of Promoting a Book

26:00 The Journey of Writing and Publishing Book Two

28:13 Balancing Writing with Life and Expectations

34:56 Introducing Nana Crackles: A Delightful Debut

36:45 Reflecting on the Book Release Experience

43:12 Challenges and Joys of Publicity

49:34 Top Tips for Writers

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You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here:

Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author
Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos
Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor

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WARNING: This episode contains explicit language.

Debut Panel: Carly-Jay Metcalfe and Christine Newell on writing memoir, book deals and more

In this episode of The Book Deal podcast, Madeleine  interviews debut authors Carly-Jay Metcalfe and Christine Newell. Carly-Jay discusses her critically acclaimed (and darkly funny) memoir about living and dying, Breath (March 2024, UQP). Christine talks about her memoir, Five Seasons in Seoul (March 2025, Affirm Press), which explores her time living in South Korea as a theatre performer and dealing with anxiety and depression following her father's death. Both authors share insights on the challenges of writing memoirs, structuring their stories, and the impact of memoir writing on their personal lives. They also discuss the process of securing book deals and the positive reception their books have received. 

Additionally, the episode highlights Carly-Jay's involvement with Chapters for Change, a non-profit focused on improving literacy for children in Cambodia. You can sign up right now to be part of the July Readathon! And why not? You can read while raising money for a brilliant cause. All the details are here.

Carly-Jay recommends Catherine Wheel by Liz Evans (August 2024, Ultimo Press)

Christine recommends Bloomer by Carol Lefevre (25 March 2025, Affirm Press)

00:00 Introduction to the Book Deal Podcast
00:43 Meet the Debut Memoir Authors
02:02 The Debut Crew Experience
04:53 Carly-Jay Metcalfe's Award-Winning Memoir
08:43 Christine Newell's Memoir Journey
12:21 Writing and Structuring a Memoir
26:04 The Path to Publication
28:49 Inside the Publishing House
29:55 The Pressure of an Unfinished Manuscript
32:05 Manuscript Appraisal and Feedback
34:25 The Emotional Journey of Publication
42:04 Social Media and Reader Reactions
49:10 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

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You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here:

Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author
Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos
Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor

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In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, host Natasha Rai interviews debut author and screenwriter Zahid Gamieldien. Known for his novel 'All The Missing Children', published by Ultimo Press in 2024, Zahid discusses his path to publication, story structure intricacies, and the emotional and psychological effects of his novel's plot on various characters. He also shares valuable insights into the importance of planning, balancing creativity, overcoming self-doubt, and how perseverance plays a crucial role in becoming a successful writer. Zahid’s teaching experience and practical tips offer emerging writers clear guidance on improving their craft and navigating the publishing industry.

00:00 Introduction to the Book Deal Podcast
00:39 Meet Zahid Gamieldien: Author and Screenwriter
01:49 Discussing 'All The Missing Children'
02:57 Understanding Story Structure
04:11 The Writing Process and Planning
04:52 Teaching Writing and Story Structure
10:44 Zahid's Publication Journey
14:31 Early Writing Attempts and Career Decisions
18:48 Balancing Craft and Creativity
21:42 Advice for Emerging Writers
23:16 Introducing Bianca Breen's Debut Novel
23:44 The Chase Begins: Gerdie and the Mysterious Boy
23:53 Blueprints and Deadly Secrets
23:59 The Missing Piece
24:03 Hunted by Conqueror Seki
24:07 Author's Hopes for Readers
24:27 Common Mistakes in Emerging Writers
24:41 Character-Driven Stories vs. Event-Driven Stories
25:24 The Importance of Patience in Writing
25:38 The Gap Between Writing and Reading
26:59 Self-Doubt and Trusted Readers
27:57 The Role of Feedback in Writing
30:20 The Unusual Crime Novel
31:35 Marketing a Genre-Defying Book
36:08 Balancing Family and Writing
38:48 Creating a Writing Ritual
42:23 Perseverance and Improvement
44:10 Reflecting on Past Work
45:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here:

Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author
Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos
Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor

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Gareth and Louise Ward on the business of bookselling and writing bestselling cosy crime.

In this episode of The Book Deal podcast, Madeleine Cleary chats with writing duo Gareth and Louise Ward, authors and owners of two Wardini Bookshops in Havelock North and Napier in New Zealand. The episode delves into the couple’s background as former police officers in the UK, their move to New Zealand, and their transition into bookshop owners and successful authors. Gareth and Louise discuss their bestselling book series, The Bookshop Detectives, their experiences co-writing as a couple, and the process of plotting and character development. They also share insights into the importance of forming relationships with booksellers, the editing process, and managing their bustling careers alongside family life. The episode concludes with their tips for aspiring authors and their reflections on the impact of their work.

Gareth and Louise's latest book in The Bookshop Detectives series is Tea and Cake and Death (1 April 2025, Penguin Random House) and is available now in all good bookstores. 

00:00 Welcome to The Book Deal Podcast

00:42 Meet Gareth and Louise Ward

01:25 The Bookshop Detective Series

02:06 Romance (or not) and Bookshops

02:54 From Police Training to Writing

04:42 Creating Garth and Eloise

05:01 The Writing Process

11:31 Life in New Zealand

13:08 Publishing Journey

15:36 Co-Writing Dynamics

16:57 Bookshop and Community

23:03 Navigating the Publishing World

28:19 Navigating Book Reviews and Critiques

30:08 Dealing with Rejections and Persistence

31:52 Vanity Publishers and Researching Publishers

34:25 The Journey of Publishing a Second Book

36:30 Balancing Writing with Other Responsibilities

45:45 Tips for Authors Approaching Booksellers

51:34 Final Thoughts and Top Tips for Authors

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You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here:

Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author
Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos
Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor

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Tina Strachan interviews Madeleine Cleary about her debut novel, 'The Butterfly Women'. They explore Madeleine's ancestral inspiration, her meticulous research process, and the trials and triumphs of getting a book published. Madeleine shares insights on her writing journey, including the importance of finding joy in writing, the role of her supportive family, and her experience with pitching to publishers. The episode also highlights upcoming book launch events and discusses the significance of writing for oneself rather than with publication in mind.

00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast

00:43 Catching Up with Tina and Madeline

01:28 Tina's Exciting Book Launch Plans

04:30 Madeleine's Journey to Publication

10:55 The Butterfly Women: A Deep Dive

18:47 The Inspiration Behind The Butterfly Women

35:00 Researching Historical Fiction

38:20 Diving into Historical Research

39:24 The Writing Journey Begins

41:56 Finding the Heat in Writing

43:07 The Breakthrough Moment

47:39 The Road to Publication

47:56 A Life-Changing Accident

51:01 Pitching to Publishers

52:11 Securing a Book Deal

01:04:59 Preparing for the Book Launch

01:08:41 Final Thoughts and Top Tips

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You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here:

Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author
Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos
Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor

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In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, Madeleine chats with award-winning writer, editor, and podcaster Irma Gold. Recently launching to great acclaim her second novel, Shift, out now with MidnightSun. Irma delves into her inspirations, including her deep connection to Soweto, South Africa, and her journey from writing short fiction to publishing novels. The episode also explores her editing career, invaluable advice for emerging writers, and her experience with the creative process. Listen in to discover the intricacies of writing, the weight of imposter syndrome, and the vital importance of community and passion in an author's journey.

Our Debut in the Spotlight this week is Emily Paull with her debut novel, The Distance Between Dreams, out now with Fremantle Press. 

00:00 Introduction to The Book Deal Podcast

00:43 Introducing Irma Gold

04:12 Imposter Syndrome

06:53 Irma's Early Writing Journey

12:13 From Short Stories to Editing

14:27 Accidental Children's Author

19:20 The Shift to Novel Writing

25:11 Introduction to the Novel

26:06 Family Connection to South Africa

27:06 Journey to Soweto

29:26 Writing About Soweto

33:38 Exploring the Expat Experience

41:24 Editing and Writing Advice

51:54 The Importance of Reading

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You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here:

Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author
Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos
Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor

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Tina Strachan chats with Sophie Beer, a prolific children's literature author and illustrator. The discussion delves into Sophie's journey in publishing, her passion for inclusivity in writing, and the inspiration behind her middle-grade book, 'Thunderhead,' which features a music-obsessed tween facing the challenges of hearing loss. Sophie also shares valuable insights on how to write inclusively and authentically about characters with disabilities and diverse backgrounds. The episode highlights the importance of well-rounded, three-dimensional characters and offers practical advice for authors aiming to represent diverse experiences thoughtfully and respectfully.

00:00 Welcome to The Book Deal Podcast
00:43 Interview with Sophie Beer: Inclusivity in Writing
03:37 Sophie's Journey
05:47 Balancing Work and Family Life
13:34 Music and Creativity: A Deep Dive
20:00 Thunderhead and the Thunderstorm
20:28 Signed Copies and Bookshops
21:26 Character Inspirations and Personal Experiences
24:22 Introducing 'Inked' by Karen Wasson
25:39 Writing Characters with Disabilities
29:49 Avoiding Inspiration Porn
33:33 Inclusion and Sensitivity in Writing
43:57 The Importance of Trying
45:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here:

Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author
Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos
Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor

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In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, host Natasha Rai interviews Zaheda Ghani, an Afghan refugee and author of 'Pomegranate and Fig'. Zaheda shares her path to publication, starting from her early handwritten novels to her debut book being shortlisted for the Richell Prize and published by Hachette. They discuss the authenticity of her story set in 1970s Afghanistan, the scars of refugee experiences, and Zaheda's meticulous research process. The conversation also covers Zaheda's writing process, balancing advocacy and storytelling, and the emotional journey of getting published. Zaheda provides valuable tips for writers, emphasizing authenticity and the importance of setting intentions.

00:00 Introduction to the Book Deal Podcast
00:34 Meet Zaheda Ghani: From Refugee to Author
02:26 The Journey of 'Pomegranate and Fig'
03:55 Writing with Authenticity and Detail
06:27 Navigating the Role of Advocate and Author
10:02 The Evolution of Zaheda's Writing Process
12:25 From Writing Course to Publication
13:59 The Role of Competitions in Zaheda's Success
16:30 Working with Editors and Refining the Manuscript
20:42 Introducing 'Welcome to Miracle' by Shara Curlett
22:26 Submitting to Hachette and the Waiting Game
23:14 The Waiting Game: Patience in Publishing
24:51 The Joy of Acceptance: Getting Published
25:40 Navigating the Publishing Process
26:51 Managing Expectations and Anxiety
28:42 Establishing a Writing Routine
32:01 The Creative Process: Writing for Yourself
37:52 Final Thoughts and Advice for Writers

Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos

You can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here:

Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author
Natasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videos
Natasha Rai | Author | Mentor

If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine, Tina and Natasha's newsletters for the latest news first.
Madeleine: Subscribe here
Tina: Subscribe here
Natasha: Subscribe here