In episode #134 of the Australian Book Lovers podcast, Veronica and Laurie chat industry news, writing events, trends in Australian book sales. Plus made up words from John Koenig, a shout out to Holden Sheppard for the launch of Invisible Boys on Stan, and a delightful interview with super early rising, middle-grade author Tina Strachan (no relation).

Book Spotlights:
- The Subjugate by Amanda Bridgeman - cyberpunk, genetic reengineering science fiction
- Sound of Light: Marvel: School of X by Amanda Bridgeman - Superhero Science Fiction
- Patient Zero: A Pandemic Novel by Amanda Bridgeman – Science Fiction Thriller
- Aurora: Darwin (Aurora Book 1) by Amanda Bridgeman – military science fiction
- Nate’s Noisy Nose by Frances Mackay – children’s interactive book
- Panic by Catherine Jinks – Mystery, Thriller, Suspense

Intro - 00:57
Industry news - 3:53
Book spotlights - 18:46
Author Interview - 37:12
Post interview chat - 1:19:06
Quotes - 1:26:15

Thanks for listening

In episode #133 of the Australian Book Lovers podcast, Veronica & Laurie tap into the inner worlds of two wonderful non-fiction authors. Bronwyn Frazer and Adrian Emery share their life and writing stories, philosophies and reflections on life purpose. It's a wide-ranging chat that gives listeners an opportunity to look at life from a different angle.

Intro - 0:57
Bronwyn Frazer Bio - 2:40
Adrian Emery Bio - 3:41
Change and transitions 10:23
Book Spotlight - What if? - Bronwyn Frazer - non-fictionr - 11:17
Book Spotlight - Tao Tuning - Adrian Emery - non-fiction - 13:15
What inspired you to put your message into words? - 14:35
What does self-reflection mean to you? - 32:32
Share your writing process - 50:50

Thanks for listening

In episode #132 of the Australian Book Lovers podcast, Veronica and Laurie chat industry news (so many events), story seeds, editing and the fabulous K.M. Allan's latest blog which has tips for overcoming author burnout. Veronica interviews the wonderful author Diane Clarke about mystery, history and the inspiration behind her writing.

Laurie reviews The Rarkyn's Fall by Nikky Lee

Book Spotlights:
Golden by SS Turner - contemporary
Christmas Actually by Lisa Darcy - contemporary
Not Mentioning Any Names by Margaret Pearce - Aussie Tales & Humour
Nasty Names Are Hurtful: An Australian White Ibis Responds to Name-Calling in the City – written and illustrated by Rick LeCouteur – children
What if…? How to frame challenges into opportunities for growth by Bronwyn Frazer – non-fiction/self-development

Intro - 00:57
Industry news - 14:04
Book spotlights - 30:40
Author Interview - 46:31
Post interview chat - 1:30:15
Quotes - 1:35:43
Book review - 1:38:27

Thanks for listening.

In episode 131 Veronica and Laurie are joined in the Writer's Room by Australian romance writers Rowena Mabbot and Jodie Benveniste. They chat about happily ever afters, Australian settings, simpler times, youth mental health and healing. Both writers are great observers of the human condition and share their fabulous insights and experience as well as their transitions to published authors.

Intro - 0:57
Jodie Benveniste bio - 03:39
Book spotlight - Never, Not Ever - Jodie Benveniste - YA Romance - 06:03
Rowena Mabbott bio - 07:57
Book spotlight - Avoiding the Friend Zone - Rowena Mabbott - Contemporary Romance - 11:42
Why these stories? - 17:07
Your concept of love - 22:13
As close observers of the human condition - 30:03
How has the romance genre changed - 36:11
Writing Australian settings - 40:38
Advice for new writers - 53:35

Thanks for listening

Episode 130 has Veronica and Laurie planting plenty of seeds for daydreaming over the summer break. They have news (Laurie has sent the final book (5) in her Stones of Power off to the publisher), and events to share along with five book spotlights. Laurie chats with the multi-talented author Dirk Strasser about his latest book 'Conquist', his unique writing journey, backpacking a plot and his experience in the Australian book industry (including the Aurealis awards and Aurealis Magazine). A fabulous way to begin a new year of Reading More Aussie Books!

Book spotlights:
The Necromancer by Adam Coleman – fantasy
The Rainbow Coloured Black Sheep by Drew Mortimer – autobiography
Shattered by Pauline Yates – science fiction thriller
The Case of the Beth-El Stone by David Cairns – historical fiction
Never, Not Ever by Jodie Benveniste – YA Romance

Intro - 00:57
Industry news - 7:37
Book spotlights - 22:49
Author Interview - 41:16
Post interview chat - 1:39:37
Quotes - 1:42:25

Thanks for listening.

In Episode 129, Veronica & Laurie get into the underbelly with crime and thriller writers Dan Kaufman and Lisa Kenway. We chat inspiration, experience, character arcs and red herrings. And we explore themes from the human psyche, connected consciousness, research and plot retrofitting.

Intro - 0:57
Lisa Kenway Bio - 2:47
Dan Kaufman Bio - 6:34
Book Spotlight - All You Took From Me - Lisa Kenway - pyschological thriller - 19:32
Book Spotlight - Humidity - Dan Kaufman - Aussie Noir - 20:46
Exploring the dark corners of the human psyche - 32:07
Plotting the crime thriller - 36:34
Your biggest writing and publishing lesson - 45:13
Advice for new writers - 56:00
Book Review - 58:06

Thanks for listening.

In episode #128, Laurie finally gets Veronica under the author spotlight. We learn of the Heroine's Journey, how the pathway to publication can be filled with ogres and dragons, and how important family, friends and writing communities are for fostering emerging authors. Then it's Laurie's turn to share why she writes, what she reads, fan fiction, her creative triggers, future plans, and so much more.

Intro - 00:57
Grief and Breathing While Drowning - 06:48
The Heroine's Journey - 08:22
Ochre Dragon - 11:15
ABL origins - 23:16
Why Laurie writes - 41:24
Stones of Power - 52:35
What feeds Laurie's imagination - 56:38
Boss From Hell - 58:09
How does writing make you feel? - 1:06:34
White Fire plus The Good, The Bad & The Undecided - 1:15:32
Quotes - 1:19:06
Chickabella - 1:24:25

Thanks for listening

In Episode 127, Veronica & Laurie share Australian writing and publishing industry news, writing events & more wonderful words from John Koenig. Laurie dives into a fabulous conversation about writing original science fiction novels, media tie-ins, screenplays and so much more with the amazing, award-winning and versatile Australian author, Amanda Bridgeman.

Book Spotlights:
Broome Enigma by Meryl Brown Tobin - romance
Scruffy and Silk by Karen Kepert & Kaz Clarke - children's picture book
My Name is Gucci by Sun Jung - contemporary
A Cold Season by Matthew Hooper - contemporary

Intro - 00:57
Industry news - 3:22
Book spotlights - 14:45
Author Interview - 28:28
Post interview chat - 1:25:46
Quotes - 1:29:18

Thanks for listening

In episode 126 Veronica and Laurie are joined in the Writer's Room by authors Lisa Darcy and Dr Bella Ellwood-Clayton. We dive into contemporary fiction writing, female relationships in its many forms across the generations, the concept of perfection, navigating the vicissitudes of life and ultimately triumphing over adversity. Lisa and Bella share their different writing and editing processes, and sage advice for emerging authors.

Intro - 00:57
Lisa Darcy bio - 05:35
Book spotlight - Christmas Actually - 8:48
Bella Ellwood-Clayton bio - 13:53
Book spotlight - Weekend Friends - 15:08
Outwardly perfect inwardly messy characters - 22:08
Contemporary settings - 28:31
Relationships from real life creeping into stories - 41:51
The writing and editing process - 55:58

Thanks for listening

In podcast episode 125, ABL co-founder Darren Kasenkow is back for an insightful interview with author, artist and advocate, Damien Linnane. Dive into this brilliant discussion on crime, the justice system, and memoirs as Damien shares some of the traumas and triumphs of his life story, his writing, his art, and his passion for lifelong learning.

Intro - 00:56
Author Interview - 02:25
Post interview chat - 2:01:57
Quotes - 2:03:08

Thanks for listening

More about Damien Linnane here: https://www.australianbooklovers.com/learn-more/raw

Episode 124 of the Australian Book Lovers podcast starts with an audio book excerpt of Midnight Man by Kevin Klehr. Then Veronica and Laurie dive into industry news and events, explore new words and book spotlights. We have a wonderful interview with author Finegan Kruckemeyer. Plus, the importance of reading for children, supporting artists of all kinds, and reminding everyone what great gifts books are - and of course all the other ABL merchandise.

Book spotlights:
- Beam of Light by John Kinsella – contemporary
- The Postman’s My Mate by Kelly Louise Jarris – Children’s Picture Book
- Murder at the Tennis Club by Rita Lee Chapman - mystery
- The Power of Content by Mel Daniels – non-fiction
- Conquist by Dirk Strasser – speculative fiction – portal fantasy – alternative history

Audiobook cameo - 00:57
Intro - 03:34
Industry news - 10:53
Book spotlights - 20:47
Author Interview - 41:50
Post interview chat - 1:23:56
Quotes - 1:29:32

More about Finegan Kruckemeyer here: https://www.australianbooklovers.com/learn-more/the-end-and-everything-before-it

Thanks for listening

In episode #123, Veronica and Laurie take you in a myriad of directions, from industry and upcoming news, including Wilderness Society's Karajia and Environment Award winners, fascinating first lines, and exciting events, to reminders to join your local and state writing group for more opportunities and events. Laurie chats with the wonderful Donna M Cameron about her eco-fiction/thriller/love story, The Rewilding, and so much more.

Book spotlights:
Tamarra - A story of termites on Gurindji Country by 30 collaborative authors and artists - educational picture book
Tao Tuning by Adrian Emery - non-fiction
Grace & Marigold by Mira Robertson - contemporary
Mural by Stephen Downes - contemporary

Intro - 00:57
Industry news - 3:18
Book spotlights - 21:34
Author Interview - 33:46
Post interview chat - 1:24:34
Quotes - 1:26:06

Thanks for listening

If you find people fascinating, then episode 122 is a must. Veronica and Laurie chat with authors Bruce Lowery, Jessica Mudditt and David Hume about memoir and biography. Why does this creative non-fiction genre continue to fascinate and inspire readers? Our authors share why they're willing to put a slice of their lives on the pages for the world to read.
Book spotlights:
Catch the Wind by Bruce Lowery - memoir
Once Around the Sun by Jessica Mudditt - memoir
Blind without Barriers by David Hume and Peter Murray - biography

Intro - 00:57
Bruce Lowery bio - 05:21
Catch the Wind blurb - 08:30
David Hume bio - 10:42
Blind without Barriers blurb - 17:18
Jessica Mudditt bio - 19:15
Once Around the Sun blurb - 23:24

Thanks for listening.

In episode 121, Veronica and Laurie are joined by fabulous speculative fiction authors E. J. Dawson and Pauline Yates. The conversation tackles the history of Speculative Fiction, the three key elements of any good spec fic story, and far ranging wonders about future 'what ifs'. There's a good deal of hilarity about zombies and space ships, so strap in and engage the hyperdrive.

Book spotlights:
- The Queen of Spade Trilogy: Awakening, Darkening and Reckoning by E. J. Dawson - scifi
- Shattered by Pauline Yates - scifi horror

Intro - 00:57
Pauline Yates bio - 03:37
E.J. Dawson bio - 11:24
The evolution of Space Opera - 29:32
Book spotlights - 56:31
What is your favourite speculative fiction 'what if'? - 01:00:25

Thanks for listening

Episode #120 has Veronica and Laurie chasing down speculative fiction rabbit holes as they bring you industry news, writing opportunities, book festivals and more. We share two new words from John Koenig (ecsis and craxis) that segue into a brilliant chat with climate fiction author Vanessa Lee.

Our book spotlights are wonderful children's picture books from the Wilderness Society Australia - Karajia Award Shortlist.

FIRST NATION AUSTRALIANS please note this episode contains the names of people who have passed.

- Gurril Storm Bird by Trevor Fourmile (illustrated by Jingalu)
- The Trees by Victor Steffensen (Illustrated by Sandra Steffensen)
- Gurawul the Whale by Uncle Max Dulumunmun (illustrated by Laura La Rosa)
- In My Blood It Runs by Dujuan Hoosan, Margaret Anderson & Carol Turner (Illustrated by Blak Douglas)

Intro - 00:57
Industry news - 7:17
Book spotlights - 22:59
Author Interview - 37:37
Post interview chat - 1:16:26
Quotes - 1:21:26

Episode 119 is chock full with Veronica and Laurie winding their way through news, words, book spotlights, and quotes as well as sharing their promised pitches. Veronica chats with author Andrea Putting about compassionate prosperity and purpose, and life long learning.

Book spotlights:
Talon Marked by Sue-Ellen Pashley - fantasy
Secondhand Daylight by Eugen Bacon and Andrew Hook - speculative fiction
Ask Aunty: Seasons, written by Aunty Munya and illustrated by Charmaine Ledden-Lewis - picture book
Nedingar: Ancestors, written by Isobel Bevis and illustrated by Leanne Zilm - picture book

Intro - 00:57
Industry news - 5:05
Book spotlights - 16:31
The pitches - 32:55
Author Interview - 46:07
Post interview chat - 1:22:58
Quotes - 1:26:22

In Episode 118, Veronica & Laurie bring you AI news and reminders for ASA pitching and literary speed dating events, and new words from John Koenig (nighthawk, heartmoor and furosha). Laurie chats with award winning author Catherine McNamara about writing workshops, flash fiction, short stories, and running retreats at her home in Italy. Plus Laurie reviews The Changing Room by Belinda Cranston.

Book spotlights:
The Photograph by Diane Clarke - historical mystery
Happy Millionth Birthday by RWR McDonald & Alexandra Colombo - picture book
Tipping Point by Dinuka McKenzie - crime thriller.

Intro - 00:59
Industry news - 12:36
Book spotlights - 28:32
Author Interview - 41:03
Post interview chat - 1:34:13
Quotes - 1:36:12
Book review - 1:41:31

Episode 117 is bursting at the seams. Veronica and Laurie chat and laugh with three amazing Aussie authors who build a bridge and take us over the writing abyss from book 1 to book 2. Hayley Walsh, Nikky Lee and Dr Helen Edwards inspire and entertain us as they share wisdom from their own journeys, fess up to their procrastination games, and tell us why they champion diversity and inclusion in their stories.

Book spotlights:
Scattered Scones by Hayley Walsh - light-hearted contemporary fiction
Once We Flew by Nikky Lee - science fantasy space colonisation novella
Legends of the Lighthouse Moon by Helen Edwards - middle-grade adventure

Intro - 00:59
Book Spotlights - 45:25

Veronica and Laurie host a super special writing workshop in episode #116. Dr Rachel Matthews creates a space where readers become writers. Through chat and exercises, an amazing group of people explore different approaches to storytelling and finding your natural voice and style. Many gems are written and shared with laughs, sighs and damp eyes.

Book Spotlights (giveaways) courtesy of Transit Lounge:
Never Look Desperate by Rachel Matthews - contemporary
All You Took From Me by Lisa Kenway - psychological thriller
Beam of Light - John Kinsella - contemporary stories

Intro - 00:25
Writing Prompt 1 (My life as a book) - 15:53
Writing Prompt 2 (The extraordinary in the ordinary) - 22:33
Writing Prompt 3 (Three item, single sentence) - 1:02:55
Book Spotlights - 1:11:58

In a super special Writer's Room for Ep115, we're celebrating NAIDOC week with Indigenous authors Victor Steffensen and Isobel Bevis.
Both shortlisted for The Wilderness Society Australia Karajia Awards for Children's Literature, Victor and Isobel share with Veronica and Laurie how close to their heart the writing stories for children and adults is. They want to educate everyone about the importance of caring for Country and leaving only your footprints so it becomes a shared connection and responsibilty for all Australians. We chat about Indigenous Land management, stories in language, accidental authors, the amazing art their illustrators bring to their words, and how children love the songs that accompany Victor's books.

Book Spotlights:
The Trees - written by Victor Steffensen and illustrated by Sandra Steffensen
Nedingar: Ancestors - written by Isobel Bevis and illustrated by Leanne Zilm

2024 National NAIDOC week logo by Indigenous artist Deb Belyea.

In episode 114, Veronica and Laurie realise the word ludiosis (a John Koenig original) describes their podcast planning magnificently. As well as all the regular events, news and the Melbourne weather, there's book spotlights, quotes, and reviews. And much laughter. Veronica chats with the wonderful Dr Monika Schott about her art, books, and being an advocate for marginalised communities.

Book Spotlights:

Artemisia, Aurora and Aphrodite (Regency Goddesses Series) by D.G. Rampton - regency romance
Once We Flew by Nikky Lee - science fiction
Weekend Friends by Bella Ellwood-Clayton - contemporary

Book Review: Naomi Shippen reviews Lucky Number 11 by Jess Kitching

Intro - 00:25
Industry news - 09:03
Book spotlights - 20:05
Author Interview - 32:55
Post interview chat - 1:13:20
Quotes - 1:17:10
Book review - 1:22:40

In Episode 113 we give a big shout out to our newest subscribers Hayley Walsh and Nadine Abrahams. We talk Victorian library and Aus vs US best seller stats, NAIDOC week awards and Karajia Awards shortlists, pitching tips, reading trends, and ideas for the literary Olympics. Plus, congrats to Helen Edwards and Nikky Lee for recent book cover reveals.
In a dragon-laden interview with multi-talented Sue-Ellen Pashley, she shares her wisdom, experience and advice, as well what Darth Vader wears under his suit.
Our book review is Secondhand Daylight by Eugen Bacon and Andrew Hook.

Book spotlights:
The End and Everything before it by Finegan Kruckemeyer - contemporary
Oblivion by Patrick Holland - science fiction
All You Took From Me by Lisa Kenway - psychological thriller
Humidity - by Dan Kaufman - Aussie noir crime

Intro - 00:25
Industry news - 06:29
Book spotlights - 20:06
Author Interview - 38:22
Post interview chat - 1:26:39
Quotes - 1:32:16
Book review - 1:34:22

In episode 112, Veronica and Laurie bring you libraries, warm winter reads, Lego adventures, Story Dogs, fellowships, industry news, made up words, reminders about the free online RAW (readers are writers) workshop with Dr Rachel Matthews and so much more... (Did you know, karanoia is terror of the blank page?)
Veronica has another go at the PMI Victorian History Library's Friday Riddle. You'll have to listen to the next episode to see if she's close.
Laurie has a wonderful chat with the amazing fantasy author Nadine Abrahams.

Book spotlights for this episode include:
Power and Obsession by Catherine McCullagh – alternative history
The Rust Red Land by Robyn Bishop – historical fiction
The Leaves by Jacqueline Rule – contemporary
Corpus in Extremis: A Memoir by Loretta Smith - memoir

Intro - 00:26
Industry news - 12:58
Book spotlights - 25:21
Author Interview - 43:32
Post interview chat - 1:25:15
Quotes - 1:32:44

In Episode 111, Veronica & Laurie bring you news, reviews and rabbit holes about phonics, olympic cyclists, AI surveys, festivals, events and anthologies (two from Deadset Press: Rebels and Rainbows + Embrace the Silence). Plus Laurie takes a deep dive interview with the amazing author Les Zig (Lazaros Zigomanis). Our book review is the final volume in the YA series Blackbirch. Blackbirch 4: The Collector by K.M. Allan.

Book spotlights this episode include:
Crossing Continents: A Cycling Odyssey from Norway to Spain by Russell Nankervis - non-fiction
Once Around the Sun by Jessica Muddit - memoir
The Girl Who Broke the World by Renee Hayes - YA dystopian fantasy
The Pact by Lisa Darcy - contemporary

Intro - 00:25
Industry news - 05:30
Book spotlights - 20:49
Author Interview - 33:39
Post interview chat - 1:29:18
Quotes - 1:31:30
Book review - 1:36:39

In the Writer's Room for Ep110, Veronica and Laurie chat with the brilliant, multi-talented crime authors Andrea Barton (The Godfather of Dance) and Kirsten Hunter (Murder at the Narssisus Gardening Club).
We explore the adventures and experiences that brought them to writing and publishing their debut crime novels.
Both have recently released first in a series starring a fabulous female sleuth. Though delivering very different stories, we discover both authors have written childrens books and share a love of live theatre and musicals. We hear about their carefully planned plots, red herrings, sidekicks, suspects, subplots, and love interests.
As well as more serious topics around human behaviour, we laugh about Google searches, puzzle solving and potato cakes versus potato scallops.

Veronica & Laurie wrestle with feline critics, share findings from the Indie Author Survey results, and manage to use the words poggled and nyctous in conversation. Plus we bring you Darren Kasenkow's final interview with inspiring author Tania Blanchard, more news, book spotlights, quotes, and reviews.

Book spotlights this episode include:
Edward's Cat: Three Cats, a Magical Legacy. And a Dog. by Maria P Frino - YA fantasy
Sisters of the Sands by J.B. Villinger - science fiction
The Painting - mystery and The Philosopher's Daughters - romance by Alison Booth.

Intro - 00:25
Industry news - 05:50
Book spotlights - 24:19
Author Interview - 39:19
Post interview chat - 1:47:39
Quotes - 1:55:18
Book review - 2:01:01

Veronica & Laurie are nerding out on words in episode #108. We have an inspirational and educational interview with the amazing middle grade author of The Rebels of Mount Buffalo, Dr Helen Edwards. Plus industry news, Book Spotlights, and tips for growing readers from Australia Reads. Veronica reviews YA dystopian fantasy, 'Sky on Fire' by Jesse Greyson.

Book spotlights:
A kids book about ADHD! by Elly Both – non-fiction
Catch the Wind by Bruce Lowery – memoir
The Changing Room by Belinda Cranston – contemporary adventure
Ake’s Ascent: Book 2 in The Stars Fallen Series by Nadine Abrahams - fantasy

Intro - 00:25
Industry news - 07:11
Book spotlights - 18:27
Author Interview - 33:39
Post interview chat - 1:26:25
Quotes - 1:33:57
Book Review - 1:38:40

Thanks for listening.

Veronica and Laurie are in the Writer's Room for episode 107! We chat with fabulous Australian authors Rachel Matthews and Michael Fitzgerald about their latest works, the themes within their stories, how they explore literary relationships, the absurdity and colour of real life, older women protagonists, and growing old gracefully - or not so gracefully.
Plus some practical facts on when and where and how they write. Both authors generously share their story inspirations and invaluable advice for new authors.

Thanks for listening.

Veronica and Laurie are in their element in Episode #106 talking all things words and writing. Veronica chats with the wonderful and inspiring Eugen Bacon about her writing and her life. We have industry news, book spotlights, and quotes. We review Blood Fever written by Laurie Bell and a whole lot more.
Book spotlights:
The Unexpected Heiress by George Mallory - contemporary family saga
The Godfather of Dance: A Jade Riley Mystery by Andrea Barton - mystery
To the River by Vikki Wakefield - psychological thriller
The White Cockatoo Flowers by Ouyang Yu - contemporary

Intro - 00:27
Industry news - 04:07
Book spotlights - 16:47
Author Interview - 35:18
Post interview chat - 1:21:09
Quotes - 1:26:13
Book Review - 1:30:48

Thanks for listening

Veronica and Laurie Bell are together again for Australian Book Lovers podcast episode 105. Darren Kasenkow is back briefly and shares his second last interview with the brilliant and prolific Australian author Simon Higgins. Plus we chat Friday Fictioneers with Laurie, laugh at the inconsistencies of the English language, and share some fabulous quotes! And yes, we have some video. Our YouTube channel is waiting for you.
Thanks for listening

Veronica is joined by Laurie Bell for Australian Book Lovers podcast episode 104. We have an amazingly generous and educational interview with renowned Australian author Catherine Jinks.
And of course we have book spotlights, industry news, made up words and a book review by Naomi Shippen of The Girl She Was Before by Jess Kitching + a whole lot more!
Including, for the first time with video! Check out our YouTube channel.
Book spotlights: The World Settlers by Callan J Mulligan - science fiction
Murder at the Narcissus Gardening Club by Kirsten Hunter - mystery thriller
Nameless by Amanda Creely - contemporary fantasy
The Rewilding by Donna M Cameron - contemporary
Thanks for listening

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for episode 103, featuring an inspiring and heartfelt interview with author Alison Booth. We have industry news, helpful tips for writers and the Reader's Café featuring book spotlights, chats about panexperiential philosophy, standing in freezers for too long, how to tell if someone's anxious, a book review of Memories Don't Lie by Pauline Yates and a whole lot more!
Thanks for listening.

It's time to hit the groovy sixties, and that means episode 102 is here! We have a soul searching interview with author Michael Buxton who discusses the magic hidden within his novel 1964! Join hosts Veronica and Darren for some Australian trivia, words that are the same but different, chats about digital coffee cups, industry news, Reader's Café and lots of book spotlights. We have a cameo from the delightful romance author, Sandy Barker plus a whole lot more...

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a jam packed episode featuring an interview with authors Ned and Shane Heaton, who reveal insights into their mission to reduce plastic across the globe and disrupt the toothbrush industry! There's a cameo from author Damien Linnane, industry news, book spotlights, chats about trivia, wild strawberries, new words, all sorts of sci-fi, and prison terms for Freddo Frog theft. We review The Rebels of Mount Buffalo by Helen Edwards and Radcliffe: a novella by Madeleine D'Este, plus a whole lot more.

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Dive into episode 99 with hosts Veronica and Darren for a thought provoking and thrilling interview with author David Cohen. We have a Reader's Cafe featuring a whole bunch of book spotlights, an author cameo by Simon Higgins, industry news, chats about the fragility of a normal day, magic mushrooms, a review by Hayley Walsh of Sandy Barker's One Summer in Santorini, and a whole lot more!

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a Writer's Lounge chat with Danielle Clode from the Australian Society of Authors! Danielle gives us an amazing insight into how AI has been trained, how authors can find out if their work has been used, and the legal landscape as we step into the future...

Never let a technical glitch get in the way of a fun horror chat! Join Darren and author Phil Hore as they continue their gushings of all things 70s and 80s, the many good reasons why you should never ask for permission, and how dinosaur research can lead to amazing international connections...

Darren sits down with author Phil Hore for a laid back chat about John Carpenter's 'The Thing', video stores, horror art, pop culture, and a whole lot more in part one of a two part Writer's Lounge special!

Strap yourself in and tap on your helmet three times to make sure it's secure, because in this episode's interview guest Myke Mollard brings enough energy to power a new planet! There's also industry news and the Reader's Cafe book spotlights with hosts Veronica and Darren, as well as discussions about the wonders of the universe right in our backyards...

Join us for this honest and informative episode featuring an interview with author Dr. Jessica Revill, who shares with host Darren the heartbreaking motivation behind her book Find Him Among The Living. This special episode includes three exclusive readings by the author following her interview, as well as an emotional tribute to her son Gregory. Australian Book Lovers hopes you find this episode as brave and important as we did.

If the conversation brings up any issues for you, please reach out to family, friends or one of the free services.
Lifeline 13 1114 SMS 0477 13 11 14
Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 TTY 1800 555 677 (ask for 1300 22 4636)
SuicideLine Victoria 1300 651 251

Join Veronica and Darren for another super fun episode as we give a shoutout for our first podcast subscribers Laurie Bell and Averil Drummond. We chat about the complexities of being human, the power of books to guide us through the unknown, industry news and why 1970's photos are scary. Stay tuned for an awesomely spellbinding interview with author Zena Shapter and the Reader's Café with new book spotlights. In our Writer's Lounge we catch up with Madeleine D'Este, plus an author reading by Zena Shapter and a whole lot more...

And now it's time for the judges! In part four of our Wilderness Awards specials, Veronica and Darren chat with Sami Bayly and Leanne Mulgo Watson, who form part of the impressive judging panel for this year's Australian Wilderness Society's Karajia & Environment Awards for Children's Literature. A huge thank you to all the authors, illustrators and judges who brought such amazing energy to the shows!

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a packed to the rafters episode featuring a soul inspiring interview and reading with author Jacinta Dietrich. We discuss the power of books to guide and shape us, strange animal hybrids, book spotlights, industry news, Reader's Café, Writer's Lounge. Lachlan and Jacinta from Differently Brained podcast drop in for a quick cameo and bookstagrammer Kat Powers shares her thoughts on Naomi Shippen's debut novel, Far From Harm. Plus a whole lot more!
www.papercutscomicsfestival.com

Time to join hosts Veronica and Darren for our super fun third special for the Wilderness Society Australia Karajia & Environment Awards for Children's Literature. We have an amazing chat with shortlisted artists Jaclyn Crupi, Nicole Godwin, Ned & Shane Heaton, Milly Formby, Tannya Harricks and Myke Mollard! So sit back, relax, and enjoy a world of inspiration...

Evil in plain sight... parachute pants... philosophical musings around the proverbial mask we all wear... Episode 89 is here! Veronica and Darren have a super thrilling interview with author Naomi Shippen, industry news and book spotlights in the Reader's Café. In the Writer's Lounge, we catch up with one of our favourite authors and our very first podcast episode interviewee, special guest Gary Lonesborough. We have an exclusive author reading, a book review and a whole lot more...
www.newc.org.au/thunderbolt-prize-for-crime-writing.html
www.woorilla.org.au/
www.ihraf.org/creators-of-justice-literary-awards

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for another superstar filled chat. We have the amazing Wilderness Society Karajia & Environment Awards for Children's Literature short listed artists Coral Vass, Rohan Cleave, Julian Teh and Jess McGeachin! Hit play to enjoy super exciting insights and a whole heap of inspiration...

https://www.wilderness.org.au/environment-award-for-childrens-literature

Worlds within words within worlds... Welcome to episode 87 featuring an electrifying and inspirational interview with author Dr. Toula Gordillo who discusses her new book Shadows Of Sylvaheim! There's also industry news and book spotlights, the Reader's Café and Writer's Lounge with guest Conchita GarSantiago We chat about archetypes and shadow work, tropical storms, gigantic sharks and a whole lot more...

https://www.drtoulagordillo.com/
www.publishers.asn.au
www.penguin.com.au

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for the first of four Wilderness Society Australia Awards specials featuring shortlisted authors, illustrators and judges for the Wilderness Society 2023 Karajia and Environment Awards for Children's Literature. In this episode we chat with the amazing Sandra Steffenson, Jackie Kerrin and Isaiah Firebrace!

https://www.wilderness.org.au/environment-award-for-childrens-literature

Episode 85 is here and it's bursting at the seams! There's a super spectacular interview with the amazing sci fi author Pauline Yates, chats about fear, the benefits of reading horror, echidnas and bathtubs, industry news, new words Reader's Café with book spotlights and the Writer's Lounge with Jess Kitching. Plus blog tips with K.M. Allan, an exclusive author reading and a whole lot more...

In the midst of Antarctic kisses for Australia episode 84 has arrived... Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a dive into latest release books, industry news and events and a discussion about stopping traffic for silly reasons. We have an amazing interview with superstar author and globetrotter Jess Kitching who prompts our chat on the psychology of revenge! There's also the Reader's Café with our book spotlights, the Writer's Lounge with the magnificent Laurie Bell, and a whole lot more...

Welcome to episode 83! Join hosts Veronica and Darren for another filled to the brim episode featuring a super fun and awesome interview with author Danielle Corrie who discusses her book Teida's Story. We have industry news, the Reader's Café with book spotlights, chats about reflections, perspectives and the looming wave of A.I., a blog tip with K.M. Allan, book reviews, and a whole lot more...

The world changed in the blink of an eye. A computer can now chat with you. Join us for the start of an ongoing dive into what AI means for artists, and how we can define ourselves as important in the crazy cybernetic future!

It's episode 81 and nothing succeeds like excess! Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a monster episode featuring a soul inspiring interview with author Dinuka McKenzie, industry news and festivals, book releases and discussions about Australia in the year 1981, Reader's Café, Writer's Lounge, some technical glitches, and a whole lot more!!!

Episode 80 is here! Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a packed to the rafters episode featuring a thrilling and insightful interview with author Ashley Kalagian Blunt. We have industry news, book spotlights in the Reader's Café, chats about strange cat food and renaming pandas. Plus a super special guest, teacher librarian, Bec Taylor, joins the Writer's Lounge all the way from China. To finish off we have brilliant blog tips from the fabulous K.M. Allan, a wonderful reading from Dark Mode by Ashley Kalagian Blunt, and a review of S. S. Turner's The Connection Game by David.

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for episode 79 featuring a marvelously breathtaking interview with the wonderful Magdalena Ball, who discusses her latest release, Bobish! There's also industry news, the Reader's Cafe with new book spotlights, chats about yellow milk and the majesty and magic of poetry. In the Writer's Lounge, we were super lucky to be joined by author Kate Foster who tells us about her brand new Author Pen Pal program bringing authors and children together all across Australia... and a whole lot more!

78 is here! Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a super packed episode featuring discussion about whales and terrorists, the magic of possibly secret themes that can be discovered by both the reader and the writer, rugby and hugs and the honesty that can't be avoided while writing. Darren has the honour of interviewing the awesome and unstoppable author Ben Hobson. There's a stack of spotlights in the Reader's Cafe and special guests in the Writer's Lounge are Austin P Sheehan from Deadset Press and E.J. Dawson. So, sit back, make sure there's a book near by, and enjoy the show...

Episode 77 is here and that means another packed to the rafters adventure! Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a thought provoking and heart warming interview with superstar author Kay Kerr. We have discussions about letting go to create, and industry news and events. Step into the Reader's Cafe to hear what Veronica's been reading, a book review by Darren, and an excellent and fun catch up with author S.S. Turner in our Writer's Lounge, as well as another brilliant blog tip from K.M. Allan!

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a giant episode featuring a soul inspiring interview with author Joshua Hall, discussions about Turkish coffee, creating our own gods and how literary gods can teach us about ourselves, industry news, our Reader's Café featuring an audio short production by host Darren Kasenkow, an awesome sci-fi guest, Callan J Mulligan is in our Writer's Lounge. K.M. Allan gives us another useful blog tip, plus a whole lot more...

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a packed episode 75 featuring an astounding interview with author Conchita GarSantiago. We have chats, industry news, Reader's Cafe featuring a some amazing book spotlights, and our Writer's Lounge has super special guest, K.M. Allan with a brilliant blog tip, and a heartfelt reading from Conchita GarSantiago's novel 'A Cry From Home'. Plus a whole lot more...

It's 2023 and we're back! Join hosts Veronica and Darren for episode 74 featuring a powerful and heartfelt interview with author Michelle Tom, discussions around drop bears, using mother nature as a character and why powerful words are sometimes needed. Plus, we have industry news, our Reader's Café featuring book spotlights, special guest author Kevin Klehr drops into the Writer's Lounge with details about Authors at the Pub, and a whole lot more...

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a psychological thriller inspired episode! There's a fabulous interview with one of Australia's premiere crime fiction/domestic noir writers Petronella McGovern. We have discussions about fish and chip shop suspense, literary news and book reveals, thoughts about what draws us to psychological thrillers, and a whole lot more...

Summer may have slept through the alarm but episode 72 is here! Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a wonderful double interview with authors Emily Gale and Nina Kenwood. We have some super special guests and new book spotlights in the Reader's Cafe, a romance loving Sandy Barker drops into the Writer's Lounge, discussions about absurd criminal moments in history and a whole lot more...

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a blockbuster episode featuring an in depth interview with astounding crime writer Chris Hammer who chats about his latest release, The Tilt. A Reader's Cafe featuring some live reporting from a writer's festival, discussions about what makes someone a feral and why fairy bread is so good, a super fun Writer's Lounge with the always fabulous guest, author Laurie Bell. News and reviews and a whole lot more!!

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for another jam packed episode as they chat about a naughty bird that turns into a heavy metal book, the spritiual insights that can be garnered from ice cold waters, why books are possibly the greatest passports of all, a Reader's Café featuring great new book releases, a Writer's Lounge with special guest Naomi Shippen and, best of all, a spectacular interview with the wonderfully thought provoking author S.S. Turner! From castles to finance and finding one's self in a cold river on the other side of the world, we know you're going to love his chat about his latest release Secrets Of A River Swimmer...

Episode 69 is here and we are so proud to present a super inspiring, powerful and thought provoking double interview with actor, director, producer and writer, Aaron Fa'aoso, and the soul lifting, smile inducing, amazing author Michelle Scott Tucker! Together they talk about collaborating on their brand new release So Far, So Good, which is not only a gripping personal reflection of Aaron's life but also the first official biography of a Torres Straight Islander.

Join us for a coffee in the Reader's Cafe to catch up on new books to dive into, discussions about what makes a hoon a hoon, what LSD and hanging out with emus might have in common, and the potential power of truth to help us come together. And a super fun chat with author Clare Rhoden in the Writer's Lounge...

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a literary step back in time as we delve into the trials and tribulations of convict life thanks to a deep and thorough chat with historical fiction author David Cairns of Finavon! Not only that but there are chats about Razz'a and Snips and which one was best, the various different types of book readers, what makes gold so special and who were the Australian celebrities born in 1968...

But that's not all! There's industry news, the Reader's Cafe featuring a book review by aweseome contributor Naomi Shippen, and a special appearance by superstar author and podcast producer Hayley Walsh of The Write Words Podcast in the Writer's Lounge, so we invite you to hit play, sit back and enjoy a little reading and writing love...

Could this be our biggest episode yet? Join hosts Veronica and Darren for podcast 67 featuring a Reader's Cafe with special guest Belinda Grant who shares a book review with us, an incredible interview with author Miranda Luby, a drink fuelled visit to the Writer's Lounge with special guests Reb Langham and Kevin Klehr from Aus Writes, industry news, chats about a missing prime minister, the dangers of fake news, the complexities of traversing new digital realms and of course a quote or two! It's time to get comfortable...

Episode 66 is here and with it some brand new segments! Join hosts Veronica and Darren as they discuss clickety keyboards, the possible cosmic river of archetypes that brings voice to the muse, chickens waiting for spaceships and aliens advertising on Youtube...

Not only that, but Darren enjoys a stupendously fun interview with crime author Dime Sheppard who chats about her latest release Crime Writer, the door is opened for the first time to the Reader's Cafe, and author K.M. Allan joins the brand new Writer's Lounge for some relaxing banter! Grab a coffee or a sneaky wine, sit back and (we hope) enjoy the show...

Join hosts Veronica and Darren for a filled to 'the brink' episode featuring a deep and motivating interview with astounding author Holden Sheppard, as well as discussions about pen licenses, how persistance and tenacity can walk beside you on even the most difficult paths, the fine line between a good or bad lamington, and the importance of facing painful truths and turning them into stunning jewels...

Not only that but we have a wonderful book review by Naomi Shippen and a fascinating reading by author Lucy Christopher from her latest book Release, so settle back and hit play!