2025 Debut Authors on book deals, how to debut, writing tips and launch feelings

In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, Madeleine Cleary delve into the journeys of three 2025 debut authors, Kate Horan, Emma Pignatiello, and Marion Taffe.

• 'Last Shot' by Emma Pignatiello (Penguin Random House, 28 January 2025 in Australia).
• 'The Inheritance' by Kate Horan (HQ Fiction, 1 January 2025 in Australia).
• 'By Her Hand' by Marion Taffe (HarperCollins Australia, 6 March 2025 in Australia).

The episode explores the unique themes and backgrounds of their novels, their experiences navigating the publishing world, and the highs and lows of the writing and editing process. Featuring Kate, Emma and Marion's unique stories about shocking DNA test results, murder plots in wineries, and a 10th-century poetess, the discussion highlights the different paths to becoming a published author, craft advice, and tips for aspiring writers.

This episode's 'Debut Spotlight' is author Nadia Mahjouri, and her book 'Half Truth' (Penguin Random House, 11 February 2025): A daughter searches for her father; a mother for her son. From isolated Tasmania to vibrant Morocco, two women seek the truth about what happened to the same man.

Emma, Kate and Marion also recommend some debut novels for your TBR:

• 'The Safe Keep' by Yael van der Wouden
• 'Everything is Perfect' by Maxine Fawcett
• 'Tidelines' by Sarah Sasson
• 'Whenever You're Ready' by Trish Bolton
• 'Into the Margins' by Gail Holmes
• 'Green Dot' by Madeleine Gray
• 'Anomaly' by Emma Lord.

00:00 Welcome to The Book Deal Podcast

00:42 Introducing the Debut Crew

02:11 Meet Marion Taffe: Historical Fiction Writing

06:36 Emma Pignatiello: From YA Fantasy to Romantic Suspense

12:57 Kate Horan: Unveiling Family Secrets in 'The Inheritance'

32:26 Debut Spotlight: Nadia Mahjouri

34:34 Managing Publicity and Social Media

36:44 Pre-Launch Anxieties

38:47 Post-Launch Reflections

42:04 Debut Author Recommendations

48:17 Writing Tips and Techniques

57:12 Finding Your Voice as a Writer

01:00:26 Conclusion and Farewell

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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