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 char…

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 …

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 suppor…

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 publishin…

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 sh…

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 s…

Natasha Lester on setting goals, the business behind a bestseller and her latest novel, The Mademoiselle Alliance In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, Madeleine Cleary chats with international bestselling author Natasha Lester. They discuss Natasha's latest novel, The Mademoiselle Alliance (26 March 2025, Hachette Australia), inspired by Marie…

If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine and Tina's quarterly newsletters for the latest news first. You'll be in the draw for a giveaway of their new books! Madeleine: Subscribe here Tina: Subscribe here In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary explore the multifaceted landscape of author earn…

In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, Tina Strachan chats with picture book author Rory H. Mather. Known for his works such as 'Vlad's Bad Breath' and 'Laugh in the Bath,' Rory shares his journey of publishing 14 picture books with a recently signed deal for his 20th book. He provides practical tips for aspiring authors on getting published, cr…

In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, hosted by Natasha Rai, multi-talented writer and tsunami scientist Kaya Wilson discusses their unique publishing journey. Their debut memoir, 'As Beautiful As Any Other,' was widely acclaimed, and Kaya offers insightful advice on developing a writing practice, the importance of setting boundaries, and the c…

Natasha Rai on persevering through setbacks, rewriting drafts, and securing her debut book deal. In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary dive into the story behind the story of debut author, Natasha Rai, and her book 'An Onslaught of Light,' published on 4 March 2025 by Pantera Press. The conversation reve…

In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary delve into the highs and lows of their busy lives as debut authors. They catch up on their recent book launches, including Tina's 'Neeka and the Missing Key' and Madeleine's upcoming 'The Butterfly Women,' discussing their experiences, challenges, and the emotional r…

2025 Debut Authors on book deals, how to debut, writing tips and launch feelings In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, Madeleine Cleary delve into the journeys of three 2025 debut authors, Kate Horan, Emma Pignatiello, and Marion Taffe. 'Last Shot' by Emma Pignatiello (Penguin Random House, 28 January 2025 in Australia). 'The Inheritance' by Ka…

In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, Natasha Rai hosts Christine Shamista, a poet of Sri Lankan Tamil ancestry living in Sydney. Christine shares her journey to publishing her debut poetry collection, 'Soft Side of Red,' released in November 2023 by Gazebo Books. She discusses the unexpected path her collection took, the importance of feedback…

In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan interviews Dean Rankine, a renowned author-illustrator best known for his work on iconic franchises such as The Simpsons, Futurama, and Rick and Morty. Dean shares his journey from a shy, anxious child passionate about drawing to becoming a prolific illustrator and author, discussing his…

Welcome to Season 2!! In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary return for the second season with a bang. They discuss the exciting launch of their debut novels, starting with Tina's 'Neeka and the Missing Key,' Book One of the Wilder Zoo Series, illustrated by Max Hamilton and released on January 29 2025. T…

In this episode of 'The Book Deal Podcast,' host Tina Strachan interviews picture book author Kirsten Ealand, discussing her debut book 'Like a Gannet,' her writing journey, and the challenges and surprises of her debut year. Kirsten shares invaluable advice for aspiring authors, emphasizing patience, perseverance, and the strategic benefit of 'qui…

In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, YA author Troy Hunter discusses the creation and publication journey of his novel 'Gus and the Missing Boy', which was released in February 2024. Troy shares insights into the idea that sparked his book, the lengthy process it took to write and transform it from an adult crime novel to a young adult thrille…

In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, hosts Madeliene Cleary and Tina Strachan talk with Australian debut authors Kyra Geddes and Mark Mupotsa-Russell about their experiences writing, publishing, and promoting their first novels. Kyra discusses her historical fiction, 'The Story Thief,' and the long journey of research and rewriting, while Mark…

In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Madeleine Cleary and Tina Strachan talk with Ruby Ashby-Orr, publisher at Affirm Press. The discussion covers topics such as Tina's upcoming book release, the importance of pre-orders, strategies for making a compelling book pitch, and insights into the acquisitions process within publishing houses. R…

In this episode, Madeleine and Tina discuss Madeleine's recent experience with the Australian Fiction Prize, including the excitement of being shortlisted and the process involved. They delve into the importance of writing competitions for emerging writers, Madeleine's unexpected phone call from Caroline Overington, the significance of mastering sy…

In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, the hosts welcome author and book coach Katherine Collette. Known for her books 'The Helpline,' 'The Competition,' and 'The Too Tall Tales of Alma T. Best,' Katherine shares her insights on writing, pitching, publishing, and marketing. She delves into her own writing journey, discusses the role of persevera…

Madeleine and Tina delve into the challenges of knowing when a manuscript is ready to submit, sharing personal anecdotes about their own journeys to becoming published authors. Key topics include the importance of thorough editing, the patience required in the publishing industry, and the benefits of pre-ordering books to support authors. The conve…

In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Madeline Cleary and Tina Strachan interview Caitlin Lawless, the publicity manager at New South. Caitlin shares her extensive experience in the publishing industry, offering invaluable advice to aspiring authors. Topics include the difference between marketing and publicity, building a relationship wi…

In this episode, Tina and Madeline discuss a range of topics from managing time on a busy Sunday to attending the HarperCollins Author Day. They delve into the latest trends in the book market, particularly the resurgence of YA fiction. Madeline shares her recent experience of imposing a self-ban from Instagram to improve focus and creativity, and …

In part two of the interview with Samuel Bernard, a literary agent from Zeitgeist Literary Agency, he shares insights on landing an agent, the importance of polished manuscripts, and the role of timing in the publishing process. Samuel discusses his preferences and current interests in genres, accessibility for aspiring writers, and how timing and …

In this first episode of the Publishing Deal series, where Madeleine and Tina chat to publishing insiders, they begin by sharing their latest updates, including Madeleine's proofreading process for her manuscript and Tina's experiences at a writing conference. They also dive into a discussion about receiving feedback, particularly on spicy scenes, …

Tina and Madeleine discuss the rigorous editing processes, the joy of completing manuscripts, the importance of celebratory naps, preparing for book releases and the importance of record-keeping and strategic planning. Then guest Alli Paker, best-selling author of The Foot of the Cherry Tree, shares personal anecdotes and professional journeys, det…

In this episode of The Book Deal Podcast, hosts Madeleine Cleary and Tina Strachan discuss the challenges and triumphs of writing and editing with their guest, Lisa Kenway, an Australian writer and anesthetist whose debut psychological thriller 'All You Took From Me' was published by Transit Lounge Publishing. The conversation covers topics like th…

Hosts Madeleine and Tina are podcasting from a Gold Coast café! Join them as they provide updates on their writing projects and experiences. Madeleine shares her positive feedback from her publisher and her excitement and anxiety about a renowned historian reading her novel. Tina discusses the complexities of editing her third series book and the i…

Join Tina and Madeleine as they candidly discuss their paths in the writing world, from shooting author videos and exploring middle grade fiction to announcing upcoming book deals and generating new ideas. They reveal their personal writing practices, including plotting versus pantsing. Madeleine interviews Kylie Orr and they discuss the influence …

In this episode, co-hosts Madeleine and Tina discuss Tina's recent writer's retreat in Byron Bay and their busy schedules as debut authors. They also revisit their very first guest interview with Australian children's author Jess Horn. Jess shares the journey of publishing her debut picture book 'Bernie Thinks in Boxes', from participating in compe…

In the inaugural episode of The Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary introduce themselves and share their experiences and updates on their writing journey. Tina discusses her recent manuscript assessments with publishers and the benefits of the CYA Conference, while Madeleine talks about her structural edits and the long publ…

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 and Madeleine and follow their journeys here: Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos Tina Strachan children's book author Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram ph…