Best Gregory Barker Podcasts (2025)

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Author Johan du Toit 1:42:36

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8d ago1:42:36

1:42:36

Episode 158 is up and humming. We chat book covers, Laurie's BookBub experience for White Fire, and tips for writing flash fiction. Veronica chats with contemporary author Johan du Toit about his stories in 'When Only Today Matters' and Johan reads an excerpt from the title story. Plus we have news, quotes, K.M. Allan's Unpredictability Checklist a…

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Writer's Room with Maria Linwood, Dmetri Kakmi, Heather Ewings & Maxx Victor 1:04:24

18d ago1:04:24

1:04:24

In episode #157, Veronica & Laurie explore fantasy in many forms with authors Maria Linwood, Dmetri Kakmi, Heather Ewings & Maxx Victor. Why does fantasy speak to so many readers? How do you keep a fantasy story relatable for modern readers? And so much more... Intro - 0:57 Maria Linwood Bio - 4:37 Book Spotlight - Mistress of Amber and Flame by Ma…

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Researcher Dr Alexandra Dane 1:44:42

26d ago1:44:42

1:44:42

Episode #156 is packed full of writer's resources. Veronica and Laurie have industry news and discussions (congrats to Holden Sheppard for making the WA Local Hero shortlist), K.M. Allan's Reverse Outlining checklist from her book Writing and Editing Checklist, plus book spotlights and quotes. We chat with Dr Alexandra Dane about Community Publishi…

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Writer's Room with Susan Rogers, John Roosen & Sean Gorman 1:04:40

1M ago1:04:40

1:04:40

In episode #155, Veronica & Laurie are chasing adventure across the country and diving into dark alleys with mystery, crime and thriller authors Susan Rogers, John Roosen & Sean Gorman. What makes a great Aussie crime? What twists keeps readers turning the page? Have a listen and hear what these story tellers have discovered. Intro - 0:57 Susan Rog…

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Poet Gregory Day 1:33:39

1M ago1:33:39

1:33:39

It's episode #154, and Laurie's 50th co-hosting. Veronica and Laurie have industry news and events, and discuss K.M. Allan's Foreshadowing checklist from her book Writing and Editing Checklist. Plus book spotlights, giveaways and quotes. Laurie chats with poet Gregory Day about his collection SouthSightedness. And Gregory reads his poem 'Anytime be…

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Writer's Room with Sandy Barker, A.M. Jaxon & Susannah Hardy 1:06:13

2M ago1:06:13

1:06:13

In episode #153, Veronica & Laurie are ramping up the romance with authors Sandy Barker, A.M. Jaxon and Susannah Hardy. Our fabulous authors chat on romance as escapism and activism, how hot is hot enough, the inspiration behind their stories, and so much more. Intro - 0:57 Sandy Barker Bio - 3:08 Book Spotlight - I knew you were trouble by Sandy B…

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Author Laura J Fitzwilson 1:34:58

2M ago1:34:58

1:34:58

In episode #152, Veronica and Laurie share industry news and events, some brilliant ideas on writing Deep Point of View from K.M. Allan's book Writing and Editing Checklist, book spotlights, giveaways and quotes. Laurie and author Laura J Fitzwilson dive deep into fantasy, fan-fiction and Laura's book, The Fool. Plus, listen all the way to the end,…

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Writer's Room with Alistair Conwell, Clare Rhoden & Ishmael A. Soledad 59:56

2M ago59:56

59:56

In episode #151 Veronica & Laurie explore alternate realities, world building and writing sci-fi with a panel of fantastic speculative fiction authors: Alistair Conwell, Clare Rhoden & Ishmael A. Soledad. Intro - 0:57 Alistair Conwell Bio - 2:58 Book Spotlight - Circadian Web by Alistair Conwell - 3:38 Clare Rhoden Bio - 4:32 Book Spotlight - The C…

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Publisher Ginny Grant 1:26:43

3M ago1:26:43

1:26:43

Episode 150 has Veronica & Laurie chatting about their favourite topic - Australian authored books - and industry news, events and some John Koenig words. Want to know how to use agnosthesia, tarrion or proluctance in a sentence? Then have a listen. Veronica chats to the wonderful Ginny Grant, founder of Bakers Lane Books, Fearless Press and the re…

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Writer's Room with Eileen O’Hely, Rosie Schonell & Ingrid Laguna 1:06:27

3M ago1:06:27

1:06:27

Ep149 has Veronica & Laurie back in school chatting all things middle grade with authors Eileen O'Hely, Rosie Schonell & Ingrid Laguna. We cover '50 Ways to Die in Space', how 'Breaking School Rules is Easy' and what happens when 'Edie Tells a Lie' - and that's just the book titles. How much harder is it to engage middle-graders in reading? These a…

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Writer's Room with Miranda Luby and Holly Cardamone 56:33

4M ago56:33

56:33

Ep 148 has Veronica and Laurie in the Writer's Room and under the (book) covers with Miranda Luby and Holly Cardamone. They're two writers who capture some of life’s most precious and unique moments through a young adult (YA) lens. Intro - 0:57 Miranda Luby Bio - 3:47 Book Spotlight - The Edge of Everything - YA contemporary - 04:13 Holly Cardamone…

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Creators Luke Jackson, Maya Graham and Kelly Jackson 1:37:55

4M ago1:37:55

1:37:55

Episode #147 has Veronica and Laurie sharing the latest literary news and views, quotes and new book spotlights. Veronica chats with the trio of talented creatives behind The Brownout Murders, a graphic novel based on a horrifying true event. Luke Jackson, Maya Graham and Kelly Jackson share their inspiration and creative process. Book spotlights: …

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Author Stephen Higgins 1:37:11

4M ago1:37:11

1:37:11

In episode 146, Veronica and Laurie talk quirky second hand book shops, literary events and industry news. Laurie chats with speculative fiction author and musician Stephen Higgins about his words, music and Aurealis the magazine. We preview next month's book giveaways, share book spotlights, quotes and so much more. Book spotlights: 1. Friends of …

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Writer's Room with Madeleine D'Este and Zena Shapter 57:43

5M ago57:43

57:43

Love stories? Then join Veronica and Laurie in Australian Book Lovers podcast episode #145. They're in the Writer's Room with Madeleine D'Este and Zena Shapter talking dark and stormy stories, worldbuilding, Australian flavour, and writing advice for emerging writers. Intro - 0:57 Zena Shapter Bio - 2:49 Book Spotlight - When Dark Waters Burn by Ze…

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Author Elly Both 1:22:04

5M ago1:22:04

1:22:04

In Episode 144, Veronica and Laurie discover John Koenig's meaning of vellichor, keir, and keta. They share industry news, writerly events, quotes, ideas for getting your books into libraries and local stores, and book spotlights. Laurie chats with Elly Both, author of 'A Kids Book about ADHD'. Book spotlights: Killer by Joe Villanti - mystery, thr…

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Writer's Room with Christina Giuffré & Suzi Samuel 54:43

5M ago54:43

54:43

In Australian Book Lovers podcast episode #143, Veronica and Laurie are in the Writer's Room with Christina Giuffré & Suzi Samuel. Two wonderful authors who write beautifully about what they know, sharing their life experience in unique ways. Intro - 0:57 Christina Giuffré Bio - 3:32 Suzi Samuel Bio - 5:05 Book Spotlight - Dear Friend by Christina …

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Authors Linda & Marly Wells 1:23:29

6M ago1:23:29

1:23:29

In episode #142 Veronica and Laurie discover beloiter and ecury, share industry news, giveaways and quotes. They both chat with the brilliant mother daughter author team of Linda and Marly Wells about their YA time travel fantasy 'Desert Tracks', which is based in and around Mparntwe (Alice Springs). Marly is a proud woman of Warlpiri and white Aus…

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Writer's Room with Andrea Barton & Zane Lovitt 1:07:05

6M ago1:07:05

1:07:05

In Australian Book Lovers podcast episode #141, Veronica and Laurie are exploring crime fiction in the Writer's Room with Andrea Barton and Zane Lovitt. We chat about how to use your friends and contacts (nicely) to write better stories. We also dive into fictional financial grey areas and tortured twists on romantic notions of love. Intro - 0:57 Z…

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Author Abigail Mader 1:34:06

7M ago1:34:06

1:34:06

Episode 140 has Veronica and Laurie exploring epic fantasy and imposter syndrome, sharing industry news and events, and learning the meanings of momophobia and siso. Plus Veronica chats with WA fantasy author Abigail Mader about 'The Crystal Dynasty' series. Book Spotlights: 1. The Spirit Circle by Tara Calaby – speculative historical fiction 2. Th…

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Writer's Room with Ann Dombroski and Deborah Pike 1:00:06

7M ago1:00:06

1:00:06

In Australian Book Lovers podcast episode 139, Veronica and Laurie are back in the Writer's Room, diving into suspense and speculative fiction with Ann Dombroski and lifting the contemporary theatre curtain with Deborah Pike, two authors with some unexpected things in common. Intro - 0:57 Deborah Pike Bio - 2:58 Ann Dombroski Bio - 4:03 Book Spotli…

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Author John Kinsella 1:47:25

7M ago1:47:25

1:47:25

Episode #138 has Veronica and Laurie delivering industry news and events, and getting sidetracked on their favourite authors and the meaning of bildungsroman. Laurie shares a fabulous interview with prolific Australian author John Kinsella. Book Spotlights: After the Great Storm by Ann Dombroski - Speculative Fiction Thriller The Unintentional Medi…

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Writer's Room with Frances Mackay and Rick LeCouteur 1:01:11

7M ago1:01:11

1:01:11

In episode 137 Veronica and Laurie are in the Writer's Room with wonderful picture book authors Frances Mackay and Richard LeCouteur. Both generously share their experience, their passion for picture books, tips for educating and entertaining children, and advice for authors. Intro - 0:57 Frances Mackay Bio - 3:25 Richard LeCouteur Bio - 6:35 Child…

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Author Stephen Downes 1:26:51

8M ago1:26:51

1:26:51

In Episode 136 Veronica and Laurie bring you industry news and events from the world of publishing including the Understanding Australian Readers Report from Australia Reads, and how to find your own writing group. They share more treasures from the Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows and dive down twisty writing rabbit holes. Plus Laurie interviews auth…

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Author S.F. Sowter 1:32:26

8M ago1:32:26

1:32:26

In episode #135 Veronica and Laurie dissect what goes into creating a great story villain, and share news, events and grants for the writing community. Laurie gets the long straw and has a chat with fabulous sci-fic and fantasy author S.F. Sowter. Book spotlights: A Night So Dark and Full of Stars by Nikky Lee - fantasy/sci-fi/horror The Rarkyn's F…

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Author Tina Strachan 1:29:41

9M ago1:29:41

1:29:41

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 relati…

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Writer's Room with Bronwyn Frazer and Adrian Emery 1:06:16

10M ago1:06:16

1:06:16

In episode 133, 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…

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Author Diane Clarke 1:45:05

10M ago1:45:05

1:45:05

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 revie…

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Writer's Room with Rowena Mabbott & Jodie Benveniste 1:02:06

11M ago1:02:06

1:02:06

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 wel…

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Author Dirk Strasser 1:48:10

11M ago1:48:10

1:48:10

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 uniq…

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Writer's Room with Dan Kaufman & Lisa Kenway 1:00:29

12M ago1:00:29

1:00:29

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…

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Writer's Room with Veronica Strachan & Laurie Bell 1:34:28

12M ago1:34:28

1:34:28

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, …

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Author Amanda Bridgeman 1:33:37

1y ago1:33:37

1:33:37

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 …

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Writer's Room with Lisa Darcy and Bella Ellwood-Clayton 1:05:15

1y ago1:05:15

1:05:15

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…

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Author Damien Linnane 2:05:12

1y ago2:05:12

2:05:12

Episode 125 brings ABL co-founder Darren Kasenkow 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 - 0…

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Author Finegan Kruckemeyer 1:31:46

1y ago1:31:46

1:31:46

Episode 124 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 gr…

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Author Donna M Cameron 1:30:46

1y ago1:30:46

1:30:46

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…

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Writer's Room with Bruce Lowery, Jessica Mudditt & David Hume 1:10:47

1y ago1:10:47

1:10:47

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 …

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Writer's Room with E. J. Dawson & Pauline Yates 1:24:21

1y ago1:24:21

1:24:21

In episode 121, Veronica and Laurie are joined by fabulous Australian 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 shi…

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Author Vanessa Lee 1:28:24

1y ago1:28:24

1:28:24

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 b…

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Author Andrea Putting 1:30:52

1+ y ago1:30:52

1:30:52

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 Dayligh…

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Author Catherine McNamara 1:48:26

1+ y ago1:48:26

1:48:26

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 Lauri…

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Writer's Room with Hayley Walsh, Nikky Lee & Helen Edwards 1:06:59

1+ y ago1:06:59

1:06:59

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 u…

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ABL Readers Are Writers Special 1:19:58

1+ y ago1:19:58

1:19:58

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 in the moment, and shared with laughs, sighs a…

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Writer's Room with Victor Steffensen & Isobel Bevis 1:01:45

1+ y ago1:01:45

1:01:45

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…

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Author Monika Schott 1:26:16

1+ y ago1:26:16

1:26:16

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 …

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Author Sue-Ellen Pashley 1:36:14

1+ y ago1:36:14

1:36:14

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 reveal…

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Author Nadine Abrahams 1:38:05

1+ y ago1:38:05

1:38:05

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 Vi…

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Author Les Zigomanis 1:39:46

1+ y ago1:39:46

1:39:46

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 volum…

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Writer's Room with Andrea Barton & Kirsten Hunter 1:02:56

1+ y ago1:02:56

1:02:56

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 firs…

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Author Tania Blanchard 2:02:10

1+ y ago2:02:10

2:02:10

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'…