In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, YA author Troy Hunter discusses the creation and publication journey of his novel 'Gus and the Missing Boy', which was released in February 2024. Troy shares insights into the idea that sparked his book, the lengthy process it took to write and transform it from an adult crime novel to a young adult thriller, and the critical role of pitching, competitions, and agent feedback. He offers valuable advice for aspiring authors on completing their manuscripts, dealing with rejections, and the importance of writing groups and competitions. The episode also covers the excitement and unexpected challenges of seeing his first book on the bookstore shelf, along with a sneak peek into his upcoming sequel 'Gus and the Burning Stones'.

00:00 Introduction to the Book Deal Podcast
00:52 Meet Troy Hunter: Author of 'Gus and the Missing Boy'
01:16 The Inspiration Behind 'Gus and the Missing Boy'
01:59 From Idea to Manuscript: The Writing Journey
03:36 Navigating the Publishing World
06:54 The Role of Competitions in Getting Published
12:43 Dealing with Rejections and Feedback
19:08 The Importance of Writing Groups and Courses
23:46 Seeing Your Book on the Shelf
27:01 Goodreads Reviews and Reader Feedback
28:52 Exciting News: The Sequel to 'Gus and the Missing Boy'
32:34 Top Tips for Aspiring Authors
34:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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You can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:
Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author

In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, hosts Madeliene Cleary and Tina Strachan talk with Australian debut authors Kyra Geddes and Mark Mupotsa-Russell about their experiences writing, publishing, and promoting their first novels. Kyra discusses her historical fiction, 'The Story Thief,' and the long journey of research and rewriting, while Mark shares insights into his thriller, 'The Hit Woman's Guide to Reducing Household Debt,' and the unexpected path to a screen deal. The episode also includes discussions on manuscript assessments, author community support, dealing with reviews, and tips for aspiring writers.

00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast

00:40 Introducing Our Summer Series

00:56 Meet Kyra Geddes and Mark Mupotsa-Russell

06:32 Kyra's Journey to Publication

20:33 Mark's Journey and Mentorship Award

27:26 The Editorial Process

33:54 Promoting Your Debut Novel

35:17 Maintaining Momentum After Book Release

36:09 Big Wins and Screen Deals

40:04 Rapid Fire Questions: Year in Review

43:02 Challenges and Surprises in the Author Journey

46:50 Navigating Reviews and Mistakes

55:30 What's Next for the Authors?

01:00:35 Top Tips for Aspiring Writers

01:03:05 Conclusion and Farewell

Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos

You can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:
Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author

In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Madeleine Cleary and Tina Strachan talk with Ruby Ashby-Orr, publisher at Affirm Press. The discussion covers topics such as Tina's upcoming book release, the importance of pre-orders, strategies for making a compelling book pitch, and insights into the acquisitions process within publishing houses. Ruby shares her journey in publishing, the types of books she finds appealing, and offers practical advice for emerging writers on how to perfect their manuscripts and navigate rejections. The episode provides a deep dive into the collaborative aspects of editing and the intricacies of launching a debut novel.

00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast

00:40 Exciting News from Tina Strachan

03:23 Meet Ruby Ashby Orr

06:08 Tips for Perfecting Your Pitch

08:09 The Importance of Query Letters

12:54 The Role of Pitch Events

17:31 Ruby's Journey in Publishing

21:33 Understanding the Publishing Landscape

25:35 Advice for Aspiring Authors

27:27 Mastering Manuscript Evaluation

29:35 The Importance of a Synopsis

32:48 Common Mistakes Leading to Rejection

35:17 What Publishers Are Looking For

38:44 The Collaborative Editing Process

47:10 Understanding the Acquisitions Process

51:40 Top Tips for Emerging Writers

53:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Links mentioned in this episode:
Neeka and the Missing Key by Tina Strachan preorder
Ruby Ashby-Orr

Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos

You can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:
Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author

In this episode, Madeleine and Tina discuss Madeleine's recent experience with the Australian Fiction Prize, including the excitement of being shortlisted and the process involved. They delve into the importance of writing competitions for emerging writers, Madeleine's unexpected phone call from Caroline Overington, the significance of mastering synopses and pitches, and how these elements can significantly bolster a writing career.

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
01:22 A Surprise Call from Caroline Overington
03:23 The Australian Fiction Prize
05:33 Writing and Competitions
07:24 The Journey of the Second Book
10:16 The Importance of Competitions
13:25 The Shortlisting Experience
17:30 Managing Expectations and Community Support
19:40 The Importance of Entering Writing Competitions
19:57 Crafting the Perfect Logline and Pitch
20:29 Mastering the Art of Writing a Synopsis
21:00 Debate: Writing the Synopsis Before the Story
23:44 Challenges of Writing the Middle of a Story
24:26 Synopsis Writing Tips and Techniques
30:22 The Unboxing Experience for Authors
34:39 Upcoming Interviews and Future Plans
37:07 Year-End Reflections and Future Excitement

Links mentioned in this episode
The Australian Fiction Prize

Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos

You can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:
Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author

In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, the hosts welcome author and book coach Katherine Collette. Known for her books 'The Helpline,' 'The Competition,' and 'The Too Tall Tales of Alma T. Best,' Katherine shares her insights on writing, pitching, publishing, and marketing. She delves into her own writing journey, discusses the role of perseverance and community, and highlights the highs and lows of becoming a published author. Katherine also offers invaluable advice for debut and aspiring authors, emphasizing the importance of resilience and enjoying the writing process.

00:00 Introduction to Katherine Collette

02:44 Katherine's Latest Book: The Too Tall Tales of Alma T. Bess

05:26 Transitioning from Adult to Children's Books

08:38 The Story of the First Yes

13:06 The Importance of Writer's Groups

20:44 Navigating the Publishing World

24:39 Securing a Book Deal

28:07 The US Publishing Experience

30:26 A Disappointing Meeting

30:56 The Rollercoaster of Publishing

31:14 Market Research Insights

32:29 Preparing for Book Release

33:22 The Emotional Journey of Debut Authors

39:36 The Importance of Community

44:09 Book Coaching Explained

46:29 Top Tips for Aspiring and Debut Authors

48:20 Final Thoughts and Personal Reflections

Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos

You can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:
Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author

Madeleine and Tina delve into the challenges of knowing when a manuscript is ready to submit, sharing personal anecdotes about their own journeys to becoming published authors. Key topics include the importance of thorough editing, the patience required in the publishing industry, and the benefits of pre-ordering books to support authors. The conversation also touches on the creativity of children and the idea of doing writing workshops to nurture young writers.

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
00:42 Bali Trip Highlights
01:18 Writing on the Go
02:54 Creative Kids and Rainbow Poo
05:10 Encouraging Young Writers
06:41 Personal Writing Journeys
13:54 Reading to Write Better
19:06 The Challenge of Writing Pre-Mobile Phone Stories
20:59 Knowing When to Submit Your Manuscript
21:43 The Importance of Polishing Your Manuscript
23:01 Handling Structural Changes and Feedback
29:03 The Role of Competitions in Getting Published
34:40 The Waiting Game: Patience in Publishing
37:15 The Power of Pre-Orders for Authors
38:41 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos

You can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:
Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author

In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Madeline Cleary and Tina Strachan interview Caitlin Lawless, the publicity manager at New South. Caitlin shares her extensive experience in the publishing industry, offering invaluable advice to aspiring authors. Topics include the difference between marketing and publicity, building a relationship with your publicist, and preparing for a successful book launch. Caitlin also discusses her journey in the industry, the importance of persistence, and tips for leveraging social media and local festivals to enhance book visibility.

00:00 Introduction to the Book Deal Podcast
00:40 Meet Caitlin Lawless: Publicity Manager and Author
02:07 Caitlin's Journey in the Publishing Industry
06:44 Understanding Marketing and Publicity
10:31 Building Relationships with Publicists
20:33 The Role of ARCs in Publicity Campaigns
24:18 High Profile Campaigns and Their Impact
26:43 The Role of Social Media in Publicity
28:26 Optimizing Your Online Presence
30:52 Creating Buzz as an Aspiring Author
32:58 The Importance of Community and Networking
38:27 Effective Pre-Order Strategies
41:14 Navigating Festival Programs
45:02 Final Tips for a Successful Campaign

Links from the episode:
NewSouth Books

Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos

You can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:
Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author

In this episode, Tina and Madeline discuss a range of topics from managing time on a busy Sunday to attending the HarperCollins Author Day. They delve into the latest trends in the book market, particularly the resurgence of YA fiction. Madeline shares her recent experience of imposing a self-ban from Instagram to improve focus and creativity, and how it has positively impacted her writing. They also talk about their current writing projects - Tina's multiple works in progress and Madeline's focus on character development. The episode provides insights into the creative processes, struggles, and strategies of authors, offering useful tips for aspiring writers on managing character passivity and developing strong storylines.

00:00 Introduction and Sunday Plans
01:27 HarperCollins Author Day Experience
03:11 Instagram Ban and Digital Detox
09:35 Writing Progress and Work in Progress
18:21 Discovering New Writing Techniques
18:58 Visualizing Stories Like Movies
21:25 Character Development Challenges
22:49 Writing Tips for Aspiring Authors
23:30 Exploring Character Questionnaires
25:48 Juggling Multiple Writing Projects
26:56 Finding Inspiration in Unexpected Places
30:18 Engaging with the Writing Community
31:00 Conclusion and Future Plans

Links mentioned in this episode:
Curtis Brown Creative Character Development course
Masterclass: Writing Character Development
Brooke Vitale's Character Development Questionnaire

Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos

You can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:
Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videos
Tina Strachan children's book author
Madeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videos
Madeleine Cleary | Author