We made it to our one year anniversary! And what better way to celebrate than by doing a Lord of the Ring trivia challenge. Listen as Eloise tries her best to answer some Tolkien Trivia and then go off on a lot of random tangents, but did you expect anything different from us by this point? Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and now Bluesky! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

CONTENT WARNING: Discussion of adult themes including abuse and gun violence. In this spine-tingling episode of We’re Not Helpful, we dive deep into the terrifying world of Stephen King! From iconic works like It and The Shining to underrated gems, we explore the stories, characters, and nightmares that have haunted readers for decades. We’ll discuss what makes King’s writing so terrifying, his unique storytelling style, and the best and worst of the film and TV adaptations.Of course, true to form, we’ll go off-track and likely give you zero useful info. Whether you're a hardcore Stephen King fan or just here for the chaos, tune in for an episode that’s equal parts spooky and silly.Spoilers ahead for many Stephen King stories. Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and now Bluesky! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We have officially entered spooky season, and to celebrate we start off asking an ethical quandary which breaks Eloise's brain, before moving onto a discussion all about horror. We cover a lot of different topics from the works of H.P. Lovecraft to Stephen King and the films that have shaped horror discourse over the last 50 years, as we attempt to answer the question, "What is horror and why do people like to be scared?"Turn off the lights, lock the doors, and ignore that strange sound coming from the attic...Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this hilarious episode join our hosts as they dive into the wild world of one-star reviews for some of literature's most beloved books! From baffling critiques to outrageous complaints, our hosts read, react, and try to guess the titles of these infamous reads. Will they recognize the classics, or will the reviews leave them scratching their heads? Tune in for a fun-filled journey through literary misinterpretations, unexpected hilarity, and a celebration of why reading can be so delightfully subjective. Grab your favorite book (or not!) and settle in for an episode that proves sometimes, even the greatest stories can have the worst reviews.Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we tackle the highbrow literary theory known as "The Death of an Author"—and by "tackle," we mean we kind of bump into it, spill our coffee, and then pretend we know what we're talking about. Join us as we try to explain why the author's intentions may or may not matter. Is it deep? Sure. Is it helpful? Absolutely not.Links to things discussed this episode: Roland Barthes' original essay "Death of the Author" - https://writing.upenn.edu/~taransky/Barthes.pdf Lindsey Ellis video essay "Death of the Author" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGn9x4-Y_7AEloise's Tumblr Comic - https://www.instagram.com/p/C_fVayvPehA/ Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should you able to enjoy things produced by horrible people without fear of judgement from others?Do public figures need to be held to a higher standard than others?Can you truly sperate the art from the artist?CONTENT WARNING: Discussions of sexual assault and transphobiaLinks to videos mentioned in the show: https://youtu.be/P60gfp4VBQQ?si=Kcj4hltxItdGMwV8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5xmeEXDFM8IComments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julian wasn't feeling well so we recruited our good friend Adrian to talk about his area of expertise. If you've ever taken a flight then you might've had one of these with you. That's right, on this episode we are talking about Airport Fiction! From James Patterson, Lee Child and Matthew Reilly (actually a lot about Matthew Reilly) we talk about the tropes and themes in these fast pace thrillers that can make the longest plane trip fly by. Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJuComments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever found yourself staring at your bookshelf, unable to muster the motivation to pick up a book? You're not alone. We'll discuss common causes of reading slumps and share some tips to reignite your love for reading. Well, we try to. Our conversation also takes a turn into the digital age. How are e-books, audiobooks, and the endless distractions of social media affecting our reading habits?Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJuComments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining us this week is Annie, the host of The Quiet Corner Bedtime Stories podcast. We touch on a lot of topics from narrating audiobooks to Stephen King to The Wheel of Time. It really has a bit of something for everyone.EXTRA NOTE: Brayton had some audio issues, caused by him forgetting to check which microphone was actually recording, so apologies for some of the audio not being to the usual level. Check out The Quiet Corner Bedtime Stories wherever you find your podcasts, or on her website: https://thequietcornerbedt.wixsite.com/my-site-1 or on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thequietcornerbedtimestories/Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJuComments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you a horror fan? In this episode we venture into the unexpected and eerie world of the Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey 1 & 2. Join us as we dissect this dark reimagining of the beloved children's classic. Are they worthy of your time or should they be relegated to the bargain bin?WARNING: This episode contains discussions of violence and adult themes, as well as full spoilers for both films.If you enjoyed this episode and would like to hear more content like it please drop us an email and let us know at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you a Doctor Who fan? Well do we have a treat for you. In this very special episode (that was meant to just be a quick chat...oops!) Eloise and Brayton discuss the newest season (season 1? 14? 40?) of Doctor Who. From the state of the series after the Jodie Whittaker era to the return of David Tennent and the introduction of the fabulous Ncuti Gatwa we discuss the highs and lows of the newest episodes, and just generally geek out over a silly little sci-fi series that we love.WARNING: This episode contains full spoilers for the newest season, so watch then first before listening. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to hear more content like it please drop us an email and let us know at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we delve into a profound yet often overlooked aspect of human experience: grief in the face of tragedy. Brayton discusses how he has been navigating these turbulent waters following the loss of a family member. Whether you're seeking solace or guidance, we hope this episode helps people experiencing the whirlwind of emotions that can come at times like these feel like they are not so alone.  Content Warning: death, grief, mental health Some books mentioned in this episode: Hardcore Grief Recovery Workbook by Steve CaseBearing the Unbearable: Love, Loss, and the Heartbreaking Path of Grief by Jeffrey Rubin and Joanne CacciatoreLonely Planet's Guide to Death, Grief and Rebirth If you our someone you know is struggling with mental health related issues please reach out to friends and family or support services such as Lifeline Australia (13 11 14) or Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636). Find a list of international crisis lines here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode Brayton and Eloise chat with fellow Brisbanite, author of the Flamegate Duology, Kate Mac. We have such a fun conversation touching on a variety of different topics, not only about as her journey in writing and self publishing, not one, but two novels, but we also about life and pop culture references. We were also very lucky to be joined by her dog Banjo, who voiced his opinions about certain topics throughout.Check out the first episode of The Helpful Parts to hear a mini review of The Flamegate Duology.This interview was recorded April 10, 2024.Checkout Kate's website and buy her books here: https://katemacwriting.com/ and follow her on Instragram at @katemacwritingBuy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJuComments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode a listener's email sparks a discussion as to whether or not there are rules that a writer must follow if they want a successful book. Is there only one way to write a book, or do you have to track your own literary path? Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode we chat with Melbourne based author Violeta M. Bagia. She has written books in the Urban Fantasy, Sci-fi and Dark Romance genres (don't worry we ask exactly what 'dark romance' means) and will soon be branching out into the crime genre.She is also an advocate for mental heath, women's rights and a supporter of sexual assault and domestic violence survivors. She also works as a creative coach helping would be writers begin or polish their work.We talk about life, writing, and her work in helping people overcome their struggles to be the best that they can.We really hope you enjoy.You can find more about Violeta at her website https://www.writepointcoaching.com/Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this highly anticipated episode Eloise finally gets to let loose and let out her most intimate thoughts about the saga that is Herman Melville's Moby Dick. Published in 1851 is has become known as one of the Great American Novels, does it deserve this reputation? Listen and find out!Host's Note: We recorded this episode in person and unfortunately we still have a lot to learn as our set up was, in the end, not ideal. We hope you will forgive the slightly dodgy audio, especially on Brayton's side, he's very sorry. We will strive to improve next time. But if you listen closely you can hear a cameo from a lovely group of budgies in the background.Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What started as a discussion quickly descends into discussions about the timelessness of Lord of the Rings, the recent controversy surrounding J. K. Rowling and the question of whether or not George RR Martin will ever finish those books! Amongst all this we also discuss the books on the 2024 Dymocks 101 list. Did your favourite book make it this year?Also if you listen carefully it's revealed Julian has never listened to an episode of his own show.Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we are joined, all the way from Connecticut, by American writer, composer, and visual artist Sarah Beth Goncarova.We discuss her amazing life and work in not only trying to encourage children to read, but also her goal of bringing some magic back into the world.We really hope you enjoy :)You can find Sarah Beth at claygrousekids.org or on her YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@readaloudwithabbaComments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode we take a break from....whatever we had been doing previously, and have some fun reading entrants from the Bulwer-Lytton Fiction Contest. An annual contest that challenges authors to write the "best" worst opening to a novel possible. If you enjoyed them you can read more entries here: https://www.bulwer-lytton.com/ Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Authors, this episode is for you! Have you ever gotten bad writing advice? Well you're not the only one.In this episode we have scoured the internet for terrible writing advice and we break down if it is actually bad advice or just misunderstood.Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the first episode of The Helpful Parts. A spin-off series where we talk about things that might not fit into a regular episode.In this special short episode Brayton talks about a book series that he has felt the need to discuss. The Flamegate Duology by Kate Mac and hopefully convinces you to read it too!Check out the authors website and buy her books here: https://katemacwriting.com/ and follow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/katemacwriting/Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode not only do we discuss the two biggest book to film adaptations in the last decades, as well as a few other we love, or hate, be we also get our first hate mail. But do we all burst into tears?....well yes, but it's unrelated.Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook and now available on TikTok.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy Valentines Day everyone! In this very romantic episode we talk about sperm....whales as we get a listener email trying to help Eloise better understand Moby Dick. Will it work or will it just make her more frustrated?And one of us has published a book! Who is it? You'll have to listen to find out. We are not above using clickbait.Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook and now available on TikTok .Buy our mystery authors new book here: https://amzn.asia/d/40DfywUSign the Reopen Boggo Road Gaol (Jail) petition here:https://www.change.org/p/reopen-boggo-road-gaol-jail-toursBuy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The long suffering Eloise gives us un update on her journey attempting to finish Moby Dick. We also discuss audiobooks and whether the rise of AI will lead to the end of the audiobook narrator.Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On our first episode of 2024 we are joined by Madeline Te Whiu, the up and coming Australian author of The Soul Thief trilogy.Find Madeline and order her books on her website: https://www.madelinetewhiu.com/or through New Dawn Publishing: https://newdawnpublishing.com.au/Follow her on her social media on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and TikTok .Comments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the final episode of the year we discuss what books we did or did not enjoy in 2023 and look forward to 2024 and what it might hold.Link to buy books discussed in the show, support independent authors :)https://katemacwriting.com/for-readersComments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Episode 4 we discuss those books that surprised you, whether in a good way or bad. Join us as we relive our days being forced to read books for high school, discuss classics like To Kill and Mockingbird and the unnamable horrors of H. P. Lovecraft.Further readings from today's discussion:Deadly Unna by Phillip GwynneNukkin Ya by Phillip GwynnePoetry by Samuel Wagan WatsonFilm:Yolgnu BoComments, questions, feedback? Get in touch at [email protected] or on Facebook.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do you do when you love a movie, tv show or book? You write your own stories about it of course. Today we delve into the world of fan fiction. The good, the bad and everything inbetween.Buy Julian's book "Shadows Embrace" here: https://amzn.asia/d/5BiSEJu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.