Meet Amy T. Matthews, an award-winning author and associate professor, about her varied writing career under different pseudonyms, where she shares her approach to balancing multiple writing projects and her thoughts on the romance genre. All of Amy’s books are traditionally published and she also writes under Amy Barry and Tess LeSue. 00:00 Introduction00:18 TikTok and who is doing it right?02:41 Nat Newman writing tips22:03 Interview with Amy T. Matthews, also known as Amy Barry and Tess LeSue29:55 From bad poetry to a PhD in creative writing31:30 Transitioning to romance writing32:11 The fascination with romance34:01 The birth of Tess LeSue35:23 Navigating the publishing world42:56 Balancing writing and teaching47:06 Intensive writing process57:42 Future aspirations and tips for aspiring writers01:01:38 Conclusion and fun fact Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Petronella McGovern, author of The Last Trace. Petronella shares her top 5 tips on creating narrative tension and so that readers keep turning the page. You'll discover techniques on character development, the challenges of editing, writing cliffhangers, ensuring you have internal and external conflicts and much more. 00:00 Introduction and welcome00:18 TV series based on books02:28 Nat Newman's writing tips on writing accents10:46 WIN: Lies & Weddings by Kevin Kwan13:51 Word of the week: Psephology15:12 Interview with Petronella McGovern, author of The Last Trace23:09 Introducing the multi-generational characters23:46 Crafting emotional connections with characters24:55 Narrative tension and point of view decisions26:40 Internal and external conflicts27:56 Writing realistic teenagers30:41 Drip feeding secrets and foreshadowing34:18 The importance of cliffhangers35:15 The evolution of writing process39:52 Balancing subplots and multiple POVs42:25 Final thoughts and future projects45:16 Conclusion and fun fact Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet award-winning poet, novelist, and translator Lia Hills. Lia reveals her innovative approach of narrating her novel, The Desert Knows Her Name, using voice recognition software while on location in the desert. She completed her first draft in TWO WEEKS! You’ll discover Lia’s methodology, challenges, and the profound connection between place and narrative. 00:00 Introduction and host's update02:00 Nat Newman’s writing tips05:51 Words at Dawn writing community08:00 Keep it simple10:21 Useful apps for writers12:31 Book giveaway: The Haters by Robyn Harding14:53 Word of the week: Imbroglio15:35 Interview with Lia Hills27:01 Immersing in character narration28:23 Writing in the desert29:11 Specific writing spaces31:50 Challenges and reflections34:39 Community engagement and research38:47 Editing and software tips49:23 Future writing methods51:17 Final thoughts and tips53:42 Podcast conclusion and resources Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Kyra Geddes, author of The Story Thief. Kyra discusses her journey from idea to publication, the importance of research, and the challenges of editing her manuscript. The episode concludes with writing tips and a book giveaway: The Wrong Man by Tim Ayliffe. 00:00 Introduction01:33 Nat Newman’s writing tips09:10 Book giveaway: The Wrong Man by Tim Ayliffe11:20 Word of the week: Fuscous11:54 Interview with Kyra Geddes28:48 The journey to starting the manuscript29:53 Overcoming the fear of the blank page30:56 The long writing process31:54 The path to publication32:51 Facing rejections and manuscript assessments34:06 Pitching to publishers35:45 The epiphany: Switching to first person37:58 Securing a publishing deal42:38 The structural edit challenge50:01 Future writing plans51:33 Top tips for aspiring writers53:28 Conclusion and final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special time-sensitive episode of 'So You Want to be a Writer,' Valerie Khoo discusses the prestigious Richell Prize with Vanessa Radnidge, Head of Narrative Nonfiction and Literary at Hachette. The episode dives into the details and benefits of entering this unique prize, which offers a $10,000 reward and a year-long mentorship with a Hachette publisher. 00:00 Introduction and special episode announcement00:35 The Richell Prize: An overview01:47 Interview with Vanessa Radnidge, Head of Narrative Non-Fiction and Head of Literary at Hachette.03:05 Details of the Richell Prize06:08 The mentorship experience10:53 Advice for aspiring writers16:59 Encouragement to enter literary competitions Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Michael Brissenden who chats about his latest novel Smoke. He discusses his research process, where he gets his ideas, how he uses a whiteboard in his writing process and transition from journalism to fiction writing. 0:00 Introduction and welcome00:23 Success story: Sarah Speedie03:40 Nat Newman's writing tips05:58 Finding beta readers12:41 Competition: Win 'Death in the Air' by Ram Murali14:52 Word of the week: Embrocate17:55 Interview with Michael Brissenden, author of Smoke23:30 Facing rejection and finding inspiration24:25 From journalism to fiction writing25:13 Crafting a nuanced story26:42 Developing characters and plot27:36 The writing process and challenges28:35 Exploring themes in 'Smoke'32:45 Research and authenticity34:30 Daily writing routine36:18 Planning and structuring a novel41:23 Journalism skills in fiction writing46:00 Creating a strong female protagonist51:22 Top writing tips for aspiring authors53:54 Conclusion and final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet author Pamela Freeman and illustrator Liz Anelli. They discuss their collaborative process in creating the picture book Seed to Sky: Life in the Daintree. They talk about the research, writing, and illustration process, how they balance text and visuals, and the importance of accuracy in children’s non-fiction. 00:00 Introduction and welcome03:00 Nat Newman’s writing tip11:48 Book giveaway: The Bookshop Woman by Nanako Hanada14:02 Word of the week: chatoyant15:40 Interview with Pamela Freeman and Liz Anelli27:37 The art of bringing colour and tone28:41 The roughs: what are they?29:32 Fiction vs. non-fiction the writing for kids33:01 The journey of an illustrator36:46 The collaborative process Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Valerie interviews B.M. Carroll, whose latest thriller, One of Us Is Missing, revolves around a family dealing with a mysterious disappearance of one family member during a concert. The conversation also touches on B.M. Carroll's writing process, character development, and the importance of feedback and rewriting. 00:00 Introduction and shoutout to AWC graduate Richard Pritchard on this third book01:55 Nat Newman’s writing tips02:50 Words at Dawn writing group05:19 Avoiding info dumps09:32 Book giveaway: Blackwater by Jacqueline Ross15:49 Interview with B. M. Carroll22:44 The creative process and panic23:32 Editing and major rewrites25:59 Timeline of writing and rewriting30:18 Character development and authenticity37:27 Writing routine and word count goals40:09 Name change and genre shift42:35 Top tips for aspiring writers46:34 Conclusion and fun fact Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy Hutton, author of Love From Scratch and Sit, Stay, Love. Amy discusses her journey from TV producer to successful romance novelist, the importance of social media presence for authors, and practical tips for aspiring writers. Host Valerie Khoo also chats to author Nat Newman who shares her experience with the Meisner acting technique, and provides valuable advice on dealing with rejection as a writer. 00:00 Introduction00:46 Deep dive into chapter structure02:43 Nat Newman’s writing tips03:01 Drama workshop insights07:45 Dealing with rejection11:55 Book giveaway: The Silence Factory by Bridget Collins14:56 Word of the week: cynosure16:25 Interview with Amy Hutton, author of Love From Scratch and Sit, Stay, Love27:19 Pitching through virtual literary speed dating27:58 Romance Writers of Australia conference experience29:32 The chaotic offer moment31:06 Working on multiple projects34:31 Developing 'Love From Scratch'39:35 Daily writing routine and discipline42:17 Engaging with social media as an author47:14 Courses and continuous learning51:37 Future plans and traditional publishing53:56 Top tips for aspiring writers56:33 Conclusion and fun fact Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Explore the world of co-writing and collaboration with Radek Sali and Bernadette Schwerdt. They explore the collaborative effort behind writing Radek’s book, How to Build a Billion Dollar Business, discussing challenges, the process of co-writing, the importance of capturing emotional depth in storytelling, and the profound impact of building a purpose-driven business. The episode touches on effective writing strategies, including the importance of starting your day with creative work and offers listeners a chance to win three copies of The Underhistory by Kaaron Warren. 00:00 Welcome to the podcast & upcoming seminar announcement00:16 Deep dive into writing chapters02:24 Nat Newman's writing tips & personal journey13:29 Win The Underhistory by Kaaron Warren.17:57 Meeting Radek Sali and his co-writer Bernadette Schwerdt21:50 From idea to co-writer22:32 Challenges, editors, and finding the right partner24:02 Bernadette's approach: From manuscript assessment to starting fresh24:57 Crafting the narrative via nterviews, structure, and voice37:01 The business of co-writing: Financials and working with publishers40:08 Insights on co-writing47:38 Reflections and future directions Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Megan Daley, author of The Beehive. Megan talks about her passion for children’s literature, her role as a teacher librarian, and her picture book The Beehive. She also discusses her book Raising Readers, which emphasises the importance of instilling a love of reading in children from a young age and offers practical advice for parents. 00:00 Welcome to the world of writing and publishing00:22 Unlocking creativity with story seeds03:48 Nat Newman's writing tip07:54 Crafting engaging openings in writing14:58 Megan Daley: A passion for children's literature and bees21:30 The journey from blog to book: Unveiling a love for reading23:01 Empowering reading habits: Tips for parents and educators23:48 A creative approach to encouraging reading29:34 Encouraging savvy teen readers in a digital age32:41 The path to becoming a teacher librarian34:02 From educator to children's book author36:28 Strategies for busy creatives42:34 From writing dreams to picture book reality44:22 A dive into the history of the exclamation mark Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Jo Peck, whose memoir Suddenly Single at Sixty details her journey through divorce and rediscovery. Jo discusses her writing process, the therapeutic value of journalling, the challenges of constructing a memoir , and her inspirations. She also offers advice for writers on being honest in their writing and the importance of self-analysis. 00:00 Welcome to the podcast & updates02:03 Nat Newman’s writing tip05:15 Crafting secondary characters07:44 Book giveaway: Ghost Cities by Siang Lu10:39 Word of the week: Desultory11:26 Writer in residence: Jo Peck on Suddenly Single at Sixty24:23 The journey of writing a memoir25:58 From school gate to bookshelf29:12 Structuring a memoir34:16 Jo’s writing process38:18 Exploring future writing projects and reflections41:09 Receiving feedback and sharing advice for aspiring writers46:27 Closing thoughts and fun facts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Deborah Abela, author of The Kindness Project. Deborah is one of Australia’s most beloved children's authors. Her latest middle grade novel is The Kindness Project, which is her 29th book. Recently, she also released the Book of Wondrous Possibilities. While Deb writes mainly in middle grade, she has also written chapter books and picture books, such as Bear in Space and the upcoming No More Room in the Bed. Also hear about 'Words at Dawn', a writing initiative for students of the Australian Writers’ Centre. And your chance to win the novel The Many Lies of Veronica Hawkins. 00:00 Welcome to the world of writing and publishing01:09 Busting myths about writing for kids02:30 Guest spotlight: Nat Newman's writing tips04:38 Words at dawn: A creative writing initiative15:27 Deborah Abela: A deep dive into middle grade novels27:12 The Kindness Project: From concept to creation29:57 Exploring kindness through storytelling31:38 The creative process and writing in verse32:05 From pitch to publication34:06 Character development and creative inspiration37:55 Rejections and successes in the publishing world39:16 From film to children's books: A career journey43:21 The art of writing across different formats50:51 Engaging with young readers: The importance of school visits55:13 Top tips for aspiring middle grade writers Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Indah Ahmad Zahri, author of 5 picture books including her latest How To Measure The Ocean. Indah, a doctor turned picture book author, delves into her career transition, the inspiration behind her books, and her advocacy work. 00:00 Celebrating 600 episodes: A journey of writing and publishing01:19 Upcoming seminar: Mastering action in storytelling03:45 Nat Newman’s writing tips10:40 Book giveaway: The North Wind by Alexandra Warwick13:00 Word of the week: propinquity15:06 Writer in residence: Indah Ahmad Zahri’s multifaceted career24:25 A magical moment at the beach: The power of picture books25:28 From inspiration to authorship: The journey begins26:57 Celebrating diversity and heritage through children's literature29:09 The challenges and joys of writing for children abroad31:44 Embracing new creative ventures33:13 Balancing creativity and parenthood35:07 Exploring new horizons in writing and art41:36 Leveraging courses for creative growth43:36 Top writing tips and a call to action for writers47:18 Closing thoughts and fun facts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Introducing Story Seeds! A month’s worth of writing prompts that you get for free. Find out how to get Story Seeds for May. The episode features Becky Holmes, author of Keanu Reeves Is Not In Love With You, a memoir and exploration into online romance scams. Becky shares her journey from opening a Twitter account during lockdown that led to interactions with online scammers, to writing a book that delves deep into the world of romance fraud while intertwining her personal experiences. The episode also includes discussions on writing tips, mental health for writers, and an intriguing conversation about theatre performances. Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Mary Anastasiou, picture book author and managing editor at Five Mile Press, as well as a former creative director at Larrikin House. Mary shares her journey from aspiring writer to influential figure in the children's book industry, highlighting the challenges and rewards of publishing picture books. She discusses the importance of illustrator-author dynamics, how to successfully submit manuscripts, and offers invaluable advice to aspiring authors and illustrators. Additionally, the episode includes insights into the process of creating picture books, from conception to finished product, and touches on the nuances of the publishing industry. Mary also talks about her latest picture book Julius Squeezer. Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet author Kell Woods, who discusses her approach to writing, her novel After the Forest, a sequel to Hansel and Gretel, and the blend of history and fantasy in her work. Kell shares insights on the research and discipline required to weave together historical accuracy and compelling storytelling. Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Carrie Sun, whose memoir Private Equity explores her journey from a high-paced finance role to embracing a writing career. Carrie discusses her writing process, the challenges of memoir writing, and the transformation she underwent during her time in the finance industry. Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is indie publishing right for you. Discover the intricacies of indie publishing with author Jodi Gibson. Delve into Jodi’s journey across traditional and independent publishing avenues for her novels. She highlights the distinct processes involved in each. Jodi shares valuable tips for indie authors, ranging from understanding why you want to indie publish to learning to love the hustle of marketing your work. The conversation covers the importance of a professional presentation of your book, meeting genre expectations, and the crucial role of building a mailing list. Additionally, Jodi discusses the necessity of assembling a publishing team, including editors and cover designers, to ensure a book's success. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the dedication required for indie publishing and the importance of defining one's own success in the literary world. Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Charlotte Barkla, who discusses her latest novel 11 Ruby Road: 1900, a series set over a hundred years in the same house, capturing the essence of family, friendship, community, and historical events. Charlotte shares her journey from engineering and teaching to becoming a children's author, the challenges and joys of writing for young readers, and her processes in research and idea generation for her books. The episode concludes with insights into authors' careers, tips for writers, and a library's unique cat-themed event promoting book forgiveness. Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.