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Natasha Rai on persevering through setbacks, rewriting drafts, and securing her debut book deal
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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 reveals Natasha's eight-year path to publication, from early long-listings in the Richell Prize and the Kill Your Darlings Unpublished Manuscript Award, to eventual success with Pantera Press. Natasha discusses the inspiration behind her novel, which explores themes of cultural identity, family grief, and queerness. She also shares invaluable insights and tips for emerging writers, stressing the importance of community, resilience, and continual writing. Additionally, Natasha reflects on how her experience as a trauma counsellor influences her writing, and offers a glimpse into her future projects.
Our debut in the spotlight this week is Christine Newell, whose travel memoir Five Seasons in Seoul was released on 25 February 2025 with Affirm Press. Madeleine highly recommends it!
00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast
00:44 Introducing Natasha Rai and Her Debut Novel
04:10 The Inspiration Behind 'An Onslaught of Light'
05:14 Exploring Themes of Home and Identity
15:44 The Journey to Publication
21:38 Christine Newell's Memoir: Five Seasons in Seoul
23:05 Acknowledgements and Initial Struggles
23:39 The Importance of Taking Breaks
24:40 Finding the Right Editor
25:26 Publisher Introduction Day
27:57 Navigating Feedback and Revisions
34:09 The Role of Community
38:00 The Journey to Publication
40:31 Final Tips and Farewell
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