In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Kenny Boyle about his contemporary novel The Tick and the Tock of the Crocodile Clock. Kenny’s debut novel was published by an indie press and Kenny’s done so much work himself to promote it so we talk about his advice for writers nervous about publicity and spreading the word about your book. We also talk about how his novel started life as a one woman play and how his own mental health inspired him to delve deeper into his main character’s life. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy The Tick and the Tock of the Crocodile Clock: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781785633027Follow Kenny on Twitter: @KennyIBoylehttps://kennyboyle.co.ukFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Heather Parry about her gothic horror Orpheus Builds a Girl. Heather has been involved in the literary scene for years but has had quite a meandering and frustrating route to getting her first novel published which we talk about in this episode, also how she took inspiration from a true story and made it her own, and how she thought carefully about language choice and musicality when creating distinctive first person narration.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Orpheus Builds a Girl: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781913547400Follow Heather on Twitter: @HeatherParryUKhttps://heatherparry.co.ukExtra Teeth Magazine: https://www.extrateeth.co.ukFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Natalie aka N.A. Cooper about her thriller Ripple Effect. I was so inspired hearing Natalie’s journey to publication. She’s done no courses or creative writing classes, encouragement came solely from her family and her own passion to keep going. She researched indie publishers herself online and ended up with a three book deal with Cambridge based Bloodhound Books. We also talk about her tips for adding suspense and battling perfectionism in those early drafts.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Ripple Effect: https://amzn.eu/iwW2UM9Buy Unravelling Alice: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781504080101Follow Natalie on Twitter: @NACooperAuthorFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmshttps://www.chloetimms.co.uk*affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Kasim Ali about his contemporary novel Good Intentions. This episode really is a must-listen. Being an editor, Kasim talks openly about what it’s like on the other side of the process and gives some surprising advice as to why he thinks writers shouldn’t be on Twitter and shouldn’t follow editors or read The Bookseller. Intrigued? Keep listening. Kasim’s had rejection after rejection, writing in every genre imaginable, but the key to it all is writing for the fun of it. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Good Intentions: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9780008450656Follow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmshttps://www.chloetimms.co.uk*affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Natasha Hastings about her middle grade novel The Miraculous Sweetmakers: The Frost Fair. In this episode we discuss disability representation in fiction, writing about grief for a younger audience and how she has learnt to become a “chaotic planner”. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy The Miraculous Sweetmakers: The Frost Fair: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9780008496050Follow Natasha on Twitter: @tashajhastingsFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmshttps://www.chloetimms.co.uk*affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Laura Lexx about her commercial novel Pivot. In this episode we discuss why she chose not to describe her characters’ appearances, how stand-up comedy makes a good partner to writing funny books and how her writing career began with a tweet that went viral.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Pivot: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781529348248Follow Laura on Twitter: @lauralexxlauralexx.co.ukhttps://www.youtube.com/@LauraLexxComedyFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Sean Lusk about his historical novel The Second Sight of Zachary Cloudesley. In this episode we talk about pushing further on emotions to find the real story in an idea, choosing language carefully to make historical fiction immersive and how it took Sean until he was on his third agent to get a book deal. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy The Second Sight of Zachary Cloudesley: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9780857528056Follow Sean on Twitter: @seanlusk1http://seanlusk.comFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Emma Styles about her thriller No Country for Girls. In this episode we discuss how this novel started out as an experiment, why Emma thinks it’s important to trust your own process when working out characterisation and trying not to worry that you don’t have all of your story worked out when you start. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy No Country for Girls: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9780751583830Follow Emma on Twitter: @emstylesauthorhttps://emmastylesauthor.comFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Louisa Reid about her literary novel The Poet. In this episode we discuss her love for and challenges of writing in verse, how writing in verse makes her focus on the crucial scenes of the novel and why, to be a writer, you need to develop a thick skin. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy The Poet: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9780857528391Follow Louisa on Twitter: @louisareidFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Caron McKinlay about her contemporary novel The Storytellers. In this episode we discuss why receiving professional feedback gave her the confidence to query agents, how a difficult time in her life lead to her finding her passion for writing again and her honesty about finding the right novel idea. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy The Storytellers: https://amzn.to/3ESDqmsFollow Caron on Twitter: @CaronMcKinlayhttps://linktr.ee/CaronMcKinlayFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Colleen Hubbard about her literary novel, Housebreaking. In this episode we discuss instinctive editing choices, why she used third person perspective to leave space for dark humour, and giving herself deadlines to pursue her dreams.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Housebreaking: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781472157522http://colleenhubbard.comFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to April Doyle about her climate sci-fi or cli-fi novel, Hive. In this episode we discuss how April was inspired by a news report on the climate crisis, how she stepped outside of her comfort zone to help promote her novel and how her career as a creative writing teacher has informed her own work. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Hive: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781913913779Follow April on Twitter: @aprilcdoyleFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Bea Setton about her literary novel Berlin. Apologies for the difference in sound quality in this episode, I forgot to record my microphone's input! In this episode we discuss why Bea thinks her protagonist Daphne is a realistic narrator rather than unreliable one, building tension and mystery retrospectively and getting through the pain of a first draft. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Berlin: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9780857527974Follow Bea on Twitter: @BeaSettonFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Salma El-Wardany about her contemporary novel These Impossible Things. In this episode we discuss how Salma built a brand, using Instagram to share her writing as a way into the publishing industry, exploring female friendship between Muslim women where their faith plays a positive role and how to approach the challenges of the editing process.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy These Impossible Things: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781398705777Follow Salma on Instagram: @salmaelwardanyFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Eve Ainsworth about her commercial novel Duckling. In this episode we discuss writing uplit with grittier themes, writing a child’s voice authentically and transitioning from children’s to adult fiction.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Duckling: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781529157246Follow Eve on Twitter: @EveAinswortheveainsworth.comFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Elissa Soave about her contemporary novel Ginger and Me. In this episode we discuss the importance of editors and why Elissa thinks they’re the unsung heroes of the process, giving voice and agency to characters who are working class girls, and why you should always aim high and enter competitions even if you don’t have the confidence. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Ginger and Me: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9780008458416Follow Elissa on Twitter: @elissa_soaveFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Jane Markland about her contemporary novel Cielo. In this episode we talk about writing characters we rarely see in fiction, writing prequels and back stories for your characters so you know them really well and the value of a writing community. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Cielo: https://amzn.to/3t7OKFCFollow Jane on Twitter: @markland_janeFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Jendella Benson about her contemporary novel Hope & Glory. In this episode we discuss starting your novel in the heat of the moment, how her freelance writing career led to interest from an editor and staying connected to your work when you’re away from your manuscript. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Hope & Glory: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781398702295Follow Jendella on Twitter: @JENDELLAJendella's blog post mentioned: https://jendella.substack.com/p/i-gave-my-first-talk-to-school-childrenhttp://www.jendella.co.ukhttps://jendella.substack.comFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Eloise Smith about her middle grade novel Sister to a Star. In this episode we talk about what advertising taught her about writing for children, her unusual route to publication where her book deal came before an agent and writing something personal you care about rather what you think kids will like. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Sister to a Star: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781912626717Follow Eloise on Twitter: @itsmeEloisehttps://eloisesmith.nethttps://goldeneggacademy.co.ukFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Claire Alexander about her commercial novel Meredith, Alone. In this episode we discuss how she found herself writing in an unexpected genre, resisting the urge to self-edit when you’ve got limited time to write and what happens when your agent isn’t keen on your original title.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Meredith, Alone: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9780241542408Follow Claire on Twitter: @ClaireAWriterhttps://www.claire-alexander.co.ukClaire's agent, Juliet Mushens's blog post about titlesFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Annie Kirby about her literary novel The Hollow Sea. In this episode we discuss exploring childlessness without cliched tropes or miracle births, playing with structure and how the Penguin Write Now scheme led to her book deal.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy The Hollow Sea: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9780241522097Follow Annie on Twitter: @DoctorKirbshttps://linktr.ee/doctorkirbshttp://www.anniekirby.com/Follow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Kate Dylan about her YA novel Mindwalker. In this episode we discuss the balance between writing what you want to write versus the reality of whether you want to get published, how her ideas often start with a single, opening sentence and the skill of writing commercial prose.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Mindwalker: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781529392685Follow Kate on Twitter: @TheKateDylanhttps://www.katedylanbooks.com/https://www.katedylanbooks.com/sub-storiesFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Ronali Collings about her commercial novel Love & Other Dramas. In this episode we discuss how she’d given up writing until Bernardine Evaristo inspired her, diversity in genre fiction and challenging stereotypes across the board, and how important it is to remember that publishing a novel is about collaboration with your team and not just a lone struggle.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Love & Other Dramas: https://amzn.to/3zyurWqFollow Ronali on Twitter: @RonaliCollingshttps://www.ronalicollings.uk/https://womensprizeforfiction.co.uk/features/for-writers/writers-toolkit/ronali-collings-its-never-too-late-to-follow-your-dreamsFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Bobby Palmer about his contemporary novel Isaac and the Egg. In this episode we discuss writing slapstick comedy alongside grief, reading memoir as research as a way into emotional subjects and how his first novel not selling made his second attempt even better.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Isaac and the Egg: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781472285508Follow Bobby on Twitter: @thebobpalmerhttps://www.bobbypalmer.co.ukFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk *affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Hannah Moffat about her middle grade novel, SMALL! In this episode we discuss the fun process of creating a school for giants, being conscious of pace and holding children’s attention and her great tips for finding an agent. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy SMALL!: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781911427278Follow Hannah on Twitter: @MissDePlumehttps://hannahmoffatt.comFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Holly Williams about her debut historical novel What Time is Love? In this episode we discuss what it was like writing about the same couple falling in love in three different time periods, interviewing real people to research recent history and embracing the long process of rewrites and editing.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy What Time is Love?: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781398706293Follow Holly on Twitter: @Holly_bopshttps://hollywrites.comFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Finn Longman about their YA novel The Butterfly Assassin. In this episode we discuss how their own chronic illness inspired their main character, the way they did their world-building retrospectively, and planning a novel when it’s part of a trilogy. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy The Butterfly Assassin: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781398507340Follow Finn on Twitter: @FinnLongmanhttps://finnlongman.com/category/writing/Follow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Confessions of a Debut Novelist is now twice-weekly until the end of the year! New episodes every Monday and Thursday. In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Rachelle Atalla about her speculative novel The Pharmacist. In this episode we talk about how Rachelle’s career as a pharmacist helped her create her main character, leaving gaps for the reader to fill in with their imagination and how her short story writing and screenwriting complement her novel writing. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy The Pharmacist: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781529342109Follow Rachelle on Twitter: @rachelle_ataFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Sussie Anie about her literary novel To Fill a Yellow House. In this episode we talk about how the changing UK high street inspired her novel’s setting, her different approach writing a novel compared to a short story and how she felt when her book sold in 48 hours. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy To Fill a Yellow House: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781474621694Follow Sussie on Twitter: @AnieSussiehttps://sussieanie.com/Follow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Abigail Bergstrom talking about her literary novel What a Shame. As an industry insider, Abigail’s perspective on being a debut is well worth a listen and we also talked about topics such as using the second person point of view, cutting through millennial stereotypes and carving out creative space to write. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy What a Shame: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781529367072Follow Abigail on Twitter: @AbigailBergstrmBergstrom StudioFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Emily Kenny about her middle grade novel The Extraordinary Adventures of Alice Tonks. In this episode we talk about how to write authentic autistic characters, why she thinks we’re in the golden age of children’s fiction and why having a mentor was the most accessible and valuable way to improve her writing craft. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy The Extraordinary Adventures of Alice Tonks: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9780861542055Follow Emily on Twitter: @Emilie_LondonWrite MentorFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to James Cahill about his literary debut Tiepolo Blue. In this episode we talk about evoking the transformative 90s gay scene in London’s Soho, how James’s academic work inspired the themes of the novel, and his advice on trying to write without thinking about readers.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Tiepolo Blue: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9781529369397Follow James on Twitter: @JamesCahillFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmschloetimms.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Julie Owen Moylan about her historical debut That Green Eyed Girl. In this episode we talk about creating sensual historical fiction, how Julie went from 70 agent rejections to a book deal and how she balances her love of Twitter with writing discipline. Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy That Green Eyed Girl: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10990/9780241508015Follow Julie on Twitter: @JulieOwenMoylanFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimms*affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, I may earn a commission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Mahi Cheshire about her psychological suspense debut Deadly Cure. In this episode we we discuss how working a night shift as a junior doctor inspired her, the twists that came as a surprise, and how she uses little pockets of time and word sprints to fit writing in around her life.Confessions of a Debut Novelist Bookshop*Buy Deadly Cure: https://amzn.to/3AKurTjFollow Mahi on Twitter: @MahiCheshireFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimms*affiliate link - if you buy books linked to the Bookshop.org site, we may earn a commission, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Olivia Fitzsimons about her literary debut The Quiet Whispers Never Stop. In this episode we we discuss writing so-called difficult female characters, her tips for writing great dialogue, and what sustains her creativity. Buy The Quiet Whispers Never Stop: https://linktr.ee/oliviafitzsimonsFollow Olivia on Twitter: @oneflawedirisFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimms Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Laura Price about her contemporary fiction debut Single Bald Female. In this episode we discuss how her novel balances the realities of living with cancer and humour, how to use feedback to improve your next draft and how to cope when your book doesn’t sell. Buy Single Bald Female: https://linktr.ee/LauraPriceWritesFollow Laura on Twitter: @LauraPriceWriteRead Laura's newsletter: https://lauraprice.substack.com/Listen to Life in Food with Laura Price: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bYjs0V1CpOEGodov38fxWFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimms Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Tina Orr Munro about her debut crime novel Breakneck Point. In this episode we discuss the joy of writing villains, how Tina used her emotional experiences from her own career and rewriting half her novel after finding an agent. Buy Breakneck Point: https://linktr.ee/TOrrMunroFollow Tina on Twitter: @TinaOrrMunroFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimms Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Kate Maxwell about her debut literary novel Hush. In this episode we discuss exploring maternal taboos, being an early morning writer and why Kate turned down offers of representation from agents before she found the right match. Buy Hush: https://linktr.ee/katemaxwellauthorFollow Kate on Twitter: @katemaxFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimms Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Stephanie Sowden about her psychological suspense novel After Everything You Did. In this episode we discuss how Stephanie makes her psychological suspense fresh by setting it in the past, why cooking makes a good companion for writing and my favourite bit of advice for writer’s block so far.Sorry for the slight difference in audio quality - I had to record the intro during the UK's heatwave and that meant recording it on my phone instead of my usual set-up!Buy After Everything You Did: https://amzn.to/3B4heFCFollow Stephanie on Twitter: @Stephsowden_Why Cooking is the Perfect Writing CompanionFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmsUpcoming EventsJericho Writers Summer Festival: https://jerichowriters.com/join-us/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Georgina Scull about her narrative non-fiction book Regrets of the Dying. In this episode we discuss how a near death experience inspired this book, writing a non-fiction proposal and her advice for writing sensitively about real people. Buy Regrets of the Dying: tinyurl.com/4rf29t2uFollow Georgina on Twitter: @georginascullFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmsUpcoming EventsJericho Writers Summer Festival: https://jerichowriters.com/join-us/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Chloë Ashby about her debut literary novel Wet Paint. In this episode we discuss revisiting past emotions to write characters’ feelings authentically, finding trusted readers, and how her novel writing process has changed now she's writing her second book.Buy Wet Paint: https://geni.us/WetPaintFollow Chloë on Twitter: @chloelashbyhttps://www.chloeashby.comFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmsUpcoming EventsJericho Writers Summer Festival: https://jerichowriters.com/join-us/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Laure Van Rensburg about her debut psychological suspense novel Nobody But Us. In this episode we discuss how the Me Too movement inspired her novel, getting into the psyche of unlikeable characters and her resilience in getting an agent. Buy Nobody But Us: https://bio.site/laurevanrensburgFollow Laure on Twitter: @Laure0901https://www.laurevanrensburg.comFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmsUpcoming EventsJericho Writers Summer Festival: https://jerichowriters.com/join-us/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Catherine Yardley about her contemporary novel Ember. In this episode we discuss writing sibling relationships, how acting helps her create characters and the snobbery surrounding women’s fiction. Buy Ember: https://linktr.ee/balavageyardleyFollow Catherine on Twitter: @Balavagehttps://www.frostmagazine.com/Follow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmsUpcoming EventsBeing A Writer Festival: https://literaryconsultancy.co.uk/event/being-a-writer-festival-2022/Jericho Writers Summer Festival: https://jerichowriters.com/join-us/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m handing over the hosting job to my good friend and fellow writer, Hayley Dunning because, as you might have seen on the episode title, today’s guest is – me, talking about The Seawomen! In this episode we discuss the stages of creating a fictional island, how her disability impacts on what she writes, and the challenge of starting work on something new. Follow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsBuy The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmshttps://www.chloetimms.co.ukFollow Hayley on Twitter: @h_dunninghttp://www.hayleydunning.comUpcoming EventsBeing A Writer Festival: https://literaryconsultancy.co.uk/event/being-a-writer-festival-2022/Jericho Writers Summer Festival: https://jerichowriters.com/join-us/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Francesca May about her fantasy novel Wild and Wicked Things. In this episode we discuss how The Great Gatsby inspired her novel, writing a slow burn queer love story and how her job at Waterstones informs her writing. Buy Wild and Wicked Things: linktr.ee/franwritesstuffFollow Francesca on Twitter: @franwritesstuffhttp://www.franwritesstuff.com/Follow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsPre-order Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmsUpcoming EventsBeing A Writer Festival: https://literaryconsultancy.co.uk/event/being-a-writer-festival-2022/Jericho Writers Summer Festival: https://jerichowriters.com/join-us/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Becca Day about her psychological suspense novel The Girl Beyond The Gate. In this episode we discuss how true crime documentaries give her ideas for her writing, how she uses personality tests to develop her characters and finding opportunities on Twitter.Buy The Girl Beyond The Gate: https://amzn.to/3NaVkndFollow Becca on Twitter: @AuthorBeccaDayhttps://beccaday.comReading Parties: https://www.readingparty.co.ukBecca's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/BeccaDayAuthorMastering Suspense, Structure and Plot: https://amzn.to/3zaZK9vAlexa Dunne's Querying advice: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJtxq7zLDhMGYyOHtquC5_GjLyAEy8_6BFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsPre-order Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmsUpcoming EventsBeing A Writer Festival: https://literaryconsultancy.co.uk/event/being-a-writer-festival-2022/Jericho Writers Summer Festival: https://jerichowriters.com/join-us/Margate Bookie: https://margatebookie.com/festival/life-as-a-debut-author/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Bonnie Garmus about her bestselling debut Lessons in Chemistry. In this episode we discuss how a frustrating meeting at work inspired her trailblazing protagonist Elizabeth Zott, breaking the so-called writing rules and her 98 rejections before her success. Buy Lessons in Chemistry: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/1444582/lessons-in-chemistry/9780857528124.htmlFollow Bonnie on Twitter: @BonnieGarmushttps://www.bonniegarmus.comFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsPre-order Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmsUpcoming EventsBeing A Writer Festival: https://literaryconsultancy.co.uk/event/being-a-writer-festival-2022/Jericho Writers Summer Festival: https://jerichowriters.com/join-us/Margate Bookie: https://margatebookie.com/festival/life-as-a-debut-author/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Confessions of a Debut Novelist, I’m talking to Sophie Haydock about her historical debut The Flames. In this episode we discuss flipping the canvas where the artist’s muses take centre stage, listening and observing people to create the details of side characters and the key to staying positive on days of doubt. Buy The Flames: linktr.ee/SophieHaydockFollow Sophie on Twitter: @SophieHaydockhttps://sophie-haydock.comFollow Chloe on Twitter: @clotimmsPre-order Chloe's debut novel The Seawomen: https://linktr.ee/chloetimmsUpcoming EventsBeing A Writer Festival: https://literaryconsultancy.co.uk/event/being-a-writer-festival-2022/Jericho Writers Summer Festival: https://jerichowriters.com/join-us/Margate Bookie: https://margatebookie.com/festival/life-as-a-debut-author/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.