Stories Behind the Story with Better Reading

Wanda Gibson talks to Cheryl about publishing her picture book, the influence of her childhood on her writing and illustrations, her connection to the Lutheran church, the impact the book has had on her and her family, and how her life has evolved over the years. Her debut, Three Dresses, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lenora Thaker talks to Cheryl about her Aboriginal Australian heritage, the impact of World War II on First Nations communities, her passion for writing and for Cairns, and the first book she ever read, which ended up sparking her love of reading. Her debut, The Pearl of Tagai Town, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natalia Figueroa Barroso talks to Cheryl about her family's immigration journey, the deep longing many migrants feel for their homeland, the influence of her childhood on her writing and the pivotal role her grandmother played in getting her published in The Spanish Herald. Her debut, Hailstones Fell without Rain, is out August 5, 2025. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fiona McKenzie Kekic talks to Cheryl about her parents, the real-life experiences that shaped her novel, her career in television, the groundbreaking book that exposed sexism in Australia's TV and news industry, and the journey to publishing her latest work, Eva Reddy's Trip of a Lifetime, which is out July 29, 2025. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve MinOn talks to Cheryl about his unique cultural heritage, the significance of names, his career in advertising and how personal experiences shaped his first book. His debut, First Name Second Name, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Luke Patterson talks to Cheryl about the art of poetry, the ways he weaves identity into his work, the significance of place in his writing, his First Nations heritage and the impact of his travels across Europe. His debut, A Savage Turn, is out August 12, 2025. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jenny Ashcroft talks to Cheryl about real-life anonymous letter cases, the thrill of writing historical fiction, and the power of community in the book world. Her latest novel, Secrets of the Watch House, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Robotham talks to Cheryl about his nineteenth novel, the evolution of the acclaimed Joe O'Loughlin series, the shifting landscape and challenges within today's publishing industry and his experiences transforming his gripping stories into successful film and television adaptations. His latest book, The White Crow, is out now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachel Paris talks to Cheryl about the challenges of navigating rejections, the timing of book releases, and the importance of perseverance. Her latest work, See How They Fall, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Angie Faye Martin talks to Cheryl about the challenges she encountered while writing her first book, her journey as a writer, the influence of her First Nations heritage on her identity and her career in government. Her debut, Melaleuca, is out now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marian Keyes talks to Cheryl about the life experiences that shaped her books. From her journey through addiction and recovery to her reflections on feminism, resilience and finding happiness in unexpected places, Marian shares how writing became both a lifeline and a source of joy. With her trademark wit and honesty, she reveals how personal hardship can fuel creativity and connection. Her latest book, My Favourite Mistake, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Madeleine Cleary talks to Cheryl about her path to publication, the importance of collaboration with editors, and how balancing a full-time job with writing has shaped her creative process. Her latest work, The Butterfly Women, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Omar Sakr talks to Cheryl about resistance, censorship, and the power of poetry to bring clarity, connection, and hope in turbulent times. His latest work in collaboration with illustrator Safdar Ahmed, The Nightmare Sequence, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrew HC McDonald talks to Cheryl about his journey to publication, the editing process that transformed The Monticello School of Swearing, and his love for languages, including his experience learning Mandarin. He shares insights into the charm of Sicily, where his novel is set, the realities of book marketing, and the balance between passion and practicality in a writing career. His latest novel, The Monticello School of Swearing, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cassie Hamer talks to Cheryl about the importance of character development, the dynamics of the plot, and how Cassie's personal experiences influence her storytelling. Her latest novel, A Stranger at The Table, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Isabel Allende talks to Cheryl about being honoured with a Barbie doll in her likeness, writing during uncertain global times, and the importance of small acts of resistance and connection. Her latest novel, My Name is Emilia Del Valle, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Natasha Lester talks to Cheryl about her writing process, the challenges of balancing creativity with the demands of daily life and how personal experiences influence her writing. Her latest novel, The Mademoiselle Alliance, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Renee Salt and Kate Thompson talk to Cheryl about Renee's harrowing experiences during the Holocaust, her survival, and the lasting impact of trauma and resilience. Kate discusses how she captured Renee's vivid memories through recorded conversations, exploring both the pain and the significance of remembering. Co-written by Kate Thompson and Holocaust survivor Renee Salt, A Mother's Promise is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Patricia Wolf talks to Cheryl about identity, belonging, and the power of landscape in storytelling, as Patricia reflects on her two-decade-long life away from Australia and how the distance has changed her perspective on home. Her latest novel, Opal, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jessie Burton talks to Cheryl about her fascination with World War I and its impact on ordinary people, the pressures of deadlines, and how storytelling is both a compulsion and a form of artistic escape. Her new novel, Hidden Treasure, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrea Thompson talks to Cheryl about her writing process, the challenges of embracing her identity and finding her voice, and how her personal experiences as a gender-diverse woman influenced her debut novel, Geraldine, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Description: Amy Matthews talks to Cheryl about her journey through historical romance and romantic comedies. She discusses how her writing evolved from slow pre-writing to fast drafting once the characters and plot are set. The conversation also touches on the emotional depth of characters, the balance between commercial and literary fiction, and the creative challenge of juggling multiple writing projects. Her latest novel, Best, First and Last, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ronni Salt talks to Cheryl about her journey to publication, tahe feedback that led to the creation of her debut novel Gunnawah, the importance of social media in connecting with readers, and how her experiences with editors and publishers have shaped her writing. Her latest novel, Gunnawah, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emily Paull sits down with Cheryl to discuss her journey into writing historical fiction, exploring how research and feedback play a crucial role in shaping her stories. She also shares insights into the freedom she feels being outside the constraints of a contract and the process of revising her debut novel, The Distance Between Dreams, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mary-Lou Stephens talks to Cheryl about her journey from radio to writing, the joy of slow travel, and how her experiences inspire her creative projects like jam-making and crumpet-baking. Her latest novel, The Jam Maker, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ashley Kalagian Blunt talks to Cheryl about how her illness has shaped her writing, her love for true crime, and the challenges of drafting new novels. Her new book, Cold Truth, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kate Horan talks to Cheryl about her writing journey, the challenges of getting published and the mentorship she received. Her latest novel, The Inheritance, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Petronella McGovern (Six Minutes, The Liars) and Margaret Hickey (Broken Bay, Stone Town) talk about their latest books, growing up in small rural towns, how to write thrillers and their lives outside of writing. Learn more about the two authors, their families, what inspired their latest books, and of course, the publishing industry in this new episode of "Authors on Authors". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachael Johns (The Other Bridget, Outback Dreams) and Belinda Alexandra (White Gardenia, The Mystery Woman) talk about their upcoming books, the mental health impacts of social media, overcoming bad reviews and the intense pressure of deadlines. Learn more about the two authors, their loveable cats, the darker side of writing, and of course, the publishing industry in this new episode of "Authors on Authors". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tim Ayliffe (State of Fear, The Greater Good) and Anna Downes (The Shadow House, Red River Road) talk about their newest books, the first time they met and what has inspired their writing journeys so far. Learn more about the two authors, their exciting pasts as an actor and a journalist, and of course, the publishing industry in this new episode of "Authors on Authors". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Connelly (Resurrection Walking, Lincoln Lawyer) and Candice Fox (Devil's Kitchen, Crimson Lake) share some laughs and talk about their first encounter in a New York City bar. Learn more about the two authors, their books, and the publishing industry in this brand new series "Authors on Authors". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sara talks to Cheryl about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine, the power of storytelling as a form of resistance, and the inspiration behind her latest book, The Sunbird, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Penelope talks to Cheryl about the evolving opportunities for women in literature, her personal reflections on her beautiful home and garden, and the importance of research in crafting authentic, impactful stories. Her latest novel, The Summerfield Saddler, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rose Carlyle talks to Cheryl about her writing journey, the realities of the publishing industry, and the delicate balance between creative expression and commercial expectations. Her latest novel, No One Will Know, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen Garner talks to Cheryl about the art of writing nonfiction, her journey as an author over the years and how age has shaped her perspective on life. Her latest book, The Season, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lainie Anderson talks to Cheryl about Kate Cookson's life as South Australia's first female police officer, the complex history of forced adoptions, and the research behind her new novel. The Death of Dora Black is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kathy George talks to Cheryl about the emotional challenges of publishing, the balance between family life and creativity, and her dedication to her latest book, The Scent of Oranges, which is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Wish-Wilson talks to Cheryl about his unconventional path to writing, his motivations for writing crime fiction and the significant themes he explores in his work. His latest novel Culter is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tess Woods speaks with Cheryl about the ongoing impact of tourism on Venice, her experiences navigating the publishing industry, and her upcoming book set in Cairo, which delves into themes of the Middle East and personal heritage. Her latest novel, The Venice Hotel, is available now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christian White talks to Cheryl about how personal experiences, especially fatherhood and aging, influence his writing, the differences between crafting novels and screenplays, and the importance of trusting readers to engage actively with his stories. His latest novel, The Ledge, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Emma Beckett talks to Cheryl about her passion for food-themed fashion, and the challenges of breaking away from the restrictive narratives that diet culture often imposes, particularly on women. Her latest book, You are More Than What You Eat, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tim Winton talks to Cheryl about his evolving worldview and the importance of community, highlighting how his work speaks to the complexities of life and the enduring hope for a better future. Tim Winton discusses the themes of survival, moral courage, and humanity in his latest novel, set in a dystopian future impacted by climate change. His latest novel, Juice, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Connelly talks to Cheryl Akle about his writing journey, from witnessing a crime to becoming a crime novelist, mentors, and the importance of place in novels. His latest novel, The Waiting, will be out in October 2024. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hasib Hourani talks to Cheryl about the displacement and dispossession of the Palestinian people, as well as the broader context of global politics, media, and the ongoing conflict in Palestine. His latest work, rock flight, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caroline Overington sits down with Cheryl Akle, the founder of Better Reading, to celebrate its 10th birthday! They reflect on the journey of building a vibrant community of readers and writers, the challenges faced along the way, and the innovative ways Better Reading has fostered a love for books in Australia. Cheryl shares her insights into the evolution of the publishing landscape, the impact of technology on reading habits, and her passion for connecting authors with their audiences. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Better Reading, this episode offers a heartfelt look at a decade of literary celebration and what the future holds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Josh Bornstein talks to Cheryl about corporate power, free speech, and the urgent need for a unified progressive agenda to tackle the various social and political crises confronting society today. His latest work, Working For The Brand, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to episode #10 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington where they discuss the impact of Australian literature, Caroline's writing journey, her thoughts on the rise of audiobooks, and the enduring appeal of traditional storytelling. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Genevieve Gannon talks to Cheryl about the evolving landscape of journalism and literature, the influence of the pandemic on her writing, and the importance of community-based journalism. Her latest novel, Inheritance, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Harriet Constable talks to Cheryl about her unconventional path to writing, her immersive research process in Venice, and the significant historical themes she explores in her work. Her latest novel,The Instrumentalist, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nick Bryant talks to Cheryl about the rise of populism, the media's influence on public perception, and the deep-seated culture wars shaping the landscape of the United States. His latest work, The Forever War, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Danielle Binks talks to Cheryl about the importance of promoting the joy of reading, the vital role of libraries in creating welcoming spaces, and how storytelling can nurture empathy and build community. Her latest YA novel, Six Summers of Tash and Leopold, is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.