In this first episode of the Publishing Deal series, where Madeleine and Tina chat to publishing insiders, they begin by sharing their latest updates, including Madeleine's proofreading process for her manuscript and Tina's experiences at a writing conference. They also dive into a discussion about receiving feedback, particularly on spicy scenes, offering practical advice on how to handle such critiques. The episode then transitions to an interview with Samuel Bernard, a literary agent at Zeitgeist Literary Agency, who shares insights on the importance of social media for authors, what agents look for in submissions, and the benefits of having a literary agent in Australia. The interview covers how to effectively use comparative titles, the critical first 500 words of a manuscript, and the agent's role in negotiating contracts and advocating for authors.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

01:11 Madeleine's Book Update

02:06 Tina's Fortnight Highlights

04:35 Discussing Feedback

12:20 Interview with Samuel Bernard

19:31 The Journey to Now

20:29 The Power of Social Media for Authors

25:03 The Role of a Literary Agent

27:42 Navigating Submissions and Manuscripts

31:21 Comparative Titles and Their Importance

37:19 Benefits of Having an Agent in Australia

41:21 Final Thoughts on Agents and Publishing

Links mentioned in this app:
Booklinks Story Arts Brisbane
Author Kirsten Ealand
Illustrator Deb Hudson
Samuel Bernard
Zeitgeist Literary Agency

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

Tina and Madeleine discuss the rigorous editing processes, the joy of completing manuscripts, the importance of celebratory naps, preparing for book releases and the importance of record-keeping and strategic planning. Then guest Alli Paker, best-selling author of The Foot of the Cherry Tree, shares personal anecdotes and professional journeys, detailing the transition from screenwriting to novel writing, particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and the extensive research required for historical fiction. The episodes highlight the power of social media in book marketing, the critical role of local bookstores, and the necessity of strong community relationships. This behind-the-scenes look at the publishing industry is rich with tips on refining manuscripts, developing an author brand, and leveraging platforms like TikTok to connect with readers and boost book sales.

00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast

00:40 Catching Up: Busy Weeks and Exciting Updates

01:09 Tina's Editing Journey

04:27 Celebratory Naps and Audiobook Auditions

06:22 Madeleine's Exciting Fortnight

07:16 Writing the Author's Note and Acknowledgements

09:44 Melbourne Events and Author Headshots

14:05 Book Links Story Arts Brisbane Event

16:56 Interview with Alli Parker: Writing Family Stories

38:46 Life in Far North Queensland

39:47 Finishing the Manuscript

40:13 Navigating the Publishing World

41:42 The Power of Networking

42:57 Getting an Agent

48:37 The Twitter Breakthrough

51:43 Editing and Refining the Novel

58:37 The Importance of Social Media

01:07:20 Building Relationships with Booksellers

01:17:51 Final Thoughts and Advice for Writers

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 discuss the challenges and triumphs of writing and editing with their guest, Lisa Kenway, an Australian writer and anesthetist whose debut psychological thriller 'All You Took From Me' was published by Transit Lounge Publishing. The conversation covers topics like the intricacies of balancing writing with a demanding career, the importance of a supportive writing community, experiences with the publishing process, and practical tips for aspiring writers. They also touch on the emotional impacts of pursuing a writing career and maintaining an effective social media presence. With insights from Lisa on how her professional background inspired her novel, the discussion provides an in-depth look at the dedication and perseverance required to succeed as an author.

00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast

00:40 Catching Up with Madeline and Tina

01:17 Writing Between the Cracks

02:48 The Joys and Challenges of First Drafts

07:51 Copy Edits and Historical Fiction

14:42 Top Tips for Writers

18:06 Interview with Lisa Kenway

31:13 Organizing the 2024 Debut Group

32:12 Sharing Drafts and Feedback

34:05 The Journey to Finalizing the Manuscript

34:59 Dealing with Rejections and Feedback

41:49 The Breakthrough Moment

47:07 The Editing Process

55:56 Public Speaking and Book Launches

59:04 Navigating Reviews and Social Media

01:02:26 Future Projects and Final Tips


Links mentioned in this episode

Lisa Kenway

Transit Lounge

The Whole Truth Podcast by Nadia Mahjouri

Emma Schwarcz Freelance Editor

Trove

Printable - Queensland Writers Centre

NaNoWriMo

Scrivener

Jacqueline Bublitz - Before You Knew My Name

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