In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary share a candid and engaging discussion about their current writing projects and experiences. Tina talks about her recent book release, 'Neeka and the Storm,' and the whirlwind of emotions she felt around its launch. Meanwhile, Madeleine opens up about her progress on her second book, the challenges of writing a crime narrative, and her breakthrough in plotting. The episode also delves into the broader writing community, touching on the feelings of disappointment many authors face around royalty statements, rejections, and the competitive nature of the industry. Special references are made to encouraging posts by author Kylie Orr and the importance of community and perseverance. The hosts conclude with book recommendations and a note on the importance of enjoying the writing process.00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast00:43 Catching Up on a Saturday Night02:11 Book Release Excitement06:58 Writing Challenges and Progress18:11 Exploring Different Writing Perspectives20:41 Reader Preferences and Writing Styles21:41 End of Financial Year Reflections22:50 Understanding Author Royalties23:52 Facing Disappointments in Publishing27:24 The Importance of Community and Persistence31:22 Balancing Writing with Realistic Expectations42:54 Current Reads and RecommendationsFollow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videosYou can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videosTina Strachan children's book authorMadeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videosMadeleine Cleary | Author If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine and Tina's quarterly newsletters for the latest news first. Madeleine: Subscribe hereTina: Subscribe here
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46:15
Supercharged brains and publishing advice with author and Publisher Dani Vee
Tina Strachan welcomes multi-published author, podcast host, and publisher Dani Vee to discuss her journey and the release of her two new books, 'My Pet Croc' and 'My Supercharged ADHD Brain.' Dani dives into the inspiration behind her books, her personal ADHD experience, and the dynamics of writing humorous kids' books. The episode also highlights tips for aspiring writers and debut authors, focusing on market awareness, honing one's craft, and building a supportive community. Additionally, Carla Salmon introduces her upcoming teen crime mystery 'We Saw What You Started,' out now. 00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast00:43 Introducing Dani Vee: Author and Publisher01:52 Discussing 'My Pet Croc'05:30 Exploring 'My Supercharged ADHD Brain'12:55 Carla Salmon's Upcoming Book14:42 ADHD in Writers: Tips and Experiences18:18 The Power of Deadlines and Competition19:00 Sleep Patterns and Productivity21:20 Using Alarms to Stay on Track22:31 Creating a Productive Writing Environment23:39 Advice for Aspiring Authors25:34 The Importance of Honing Your Craft31:50 Tips for Debut Authors34:48 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFollow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videosYou can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videosTina Strachan children's book authorMadeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videosMadeleine Cleary | Author If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine and Tina's quarterly newsletters for the latest news first. Madeleine: Subscribe hereTina: Subscribe here
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35:59
Literary festivals, pitching yourself for events (and podcasts!), new books and the special art of a timeline
Literary festivals, pitching yourself for events (and podcasts!), new books and the special art of a timelineIn this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary dive into lively discussions about their writing processes and experiences. They reveal insights on writing timelines, the importance of mapping them out carefully, and how timelines can impact the narrative structure. The episode highlights the excitement and challenges involved in attending and speaking at literary festivals, emphasising the significance of networking and building community within the literary world. Tina promotes the upcoming Currumbin Crime Writers Festival, while Madeleine advises checking out Literary Listings for festival information. Engaging and informative, this episode is a must-listen for aspiring authors and literary enthusiasts.Festival lists in AustraliaLiterary Listings (Victoria)ArtsHubOur Debut in the Spotlight is author Sarah Lane with Surprise Shark (Affirm Press, 2025), illustrated by Patrick Corrigan. 00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast00:43 19th Century Vibes and Writing Influences03:35 Madeleine's New Book Announcement05:18 Deep in Edits and Upcoming Releases06:47 The Importance of Timelines in Writing12:26 Upcoming Events and Workshops15:05 Surprise Shark: A Delightful New Picture Book16:33 Williamstown Literary Festival Highlights17:01 Sex, Love, and Taboo: A Festival Experience18:30 Meeting Literary Heroes in the Green Room19:39 The Importance of Networking and Community Building23:39 Pitching Yourself to Festivals28:06 The Value of Paid Festival Appearances30:25 Upcoming Currumbin Crime Writers Festival32:25 Top Tips and Recommendations33:42 Conclusion and FarewellFollow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videosYou can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videosTina Strachan children's book authorMadeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videosMadeleine Cleary | Author If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine and Tina's quarterly newsletters for the latest news first. Madeleine: Subscribe hereTina: Subscribe here
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34:03
Manifest your writing success with Jane Tara
In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, host Tina Strachan interviews author Jane Tara about her book 'Tilda Is Visible' and how she uses manifesting and visualization to achieve her writing dreams. Jane discusses her journey, the power of understanding what you want, and taking steps to get there. They explore the impact of meditation, the creation of vision boards, and how being clear about goals can lead to success. Jane shares personal anecdotes and practical advice on the importance of aligning with your goals, manifesting creatively, and overcoming self-doubt in the writing journey. This week’s Debut Spotlight is Angela Tonioli and her book ‘Mavis the Little Plane Spotter’ with Wombat Books.00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast00:46 Introducing Jane Tara and Her Unique Approach02:06 Jane Tara's Writing Journey and Career Insights05:57 The Inspiration Behind 'Tilda is Visible'11:18 Manifesting Success and Overcoming Challenges23:15 The Power of Vision Boards and Manifestation38:02 A Magical Encounter in West Hollywood39:09 The Power of Vision Boards41:15 Navigating Opportunities as an Author42:20 Finding the Right Publisher51:22 The Role of Meditation in Creativity01:01:54 Visualization Techniques for Success01:07:08 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFollow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videosYou can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videosTina Strachan children's book authorMadeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videosMadeleine Cleary | Author If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine and Tina's quarterly newsletters for the latest news first. Madeleine: Subscribe hereTina: Subscribe here
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1:08:31
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1:08:31
Cross stitch, wine and other tips and tangents with Madeleine and Tina
In this episode of The Book Deal, hosts Tina Strachan and Madeleine Cleary pull back the curtain on their lives as writers, blending personal stories with creative insights. From kombucha-fueled weekends and quirky hobbies like cross stitching and paint-by-numbers to unexpected adventures and laugh-out-loud moments, they share the real-life rhythms behind the writing.Listeners get an inside look at their current projects, upcoming book events, and a surprise writing residency on Magnetic Island. Along the way, Tina and Madeleine offer practical tips, relatable anecdotes, and a candid glimpse into the highs and lows of the writing process. Whether you're just starting out or deep into your writing journey, this warm, witty conversation will leave you inspired and entertained.00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast00:43 Saturday Night Vibes01:13 Crafting and Creativity02:48 The Importance of Relaxation08:20 Madeleine's Recent Adventures21:13 Upcoming Events and Exciting News25:17 Dreaming of a Tropical Island Retreat26:23 Vision Boards and Manifesting Success26:55 Podcast Plans and Exciting Guests30:51 Balancing Writing and Personal Life31:48 Part-Time Work and Creative Goals33:59 Writing Tips and Recommendations37:29 Struggles and Solutions in Writing42:30 A Fun and Tangential Chat44:06 Wrapping Up and Listener EngagementFollow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videosYou can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videosTina Strachan children's book authorMadeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videosMadeleine Cleary | Author If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine and Tina's quarterly newsletters for the latest news first. Madeleine: Subscribe hereTina: Subscribe here
New Zealand