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Send us Fan Mail In this episode we speak to Fiona Hardy, who shares her journey from writing children's books to becoming a published author of adult crime novels. She discusses her creative process, Melbourne setting, character development, and the surprises of the publishing world.  She tells us about her journey as an Australian crime writer, the creative process, editing, reader reactions, and upcoming projects, offering insights into the craft and industry of crime fiction. The books of Fiona Hardy Unbury the DeadOld GamesA belated congratulations to the winners of this year's Ned Kelly Awards. Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail In part two of our conversation with Hayley Scrivenor we get a teaser for her next novel, and it is fascinating!  We talk Girl Falling and Hayley tackles our quick and the curious round and passes with flying colours... totally as expected! Find Hayley's books on Booktopia  Dirt TownGirl Fallinghttps://hayleyscrivenor.com/ A belated congratulations to the winners of this year's Ned Kelly Awards. Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail In this episode Helen and Leigh speak to Hayley Scrivenor.  Hayley shares insights into her writing process, character development, and the evolution of her novels 'Dirt Town' and 'Girl Falling'. We discover how her background, research approach, and love for place shape her compelling stories. Hayley Scrivenor shares her journey as a writer, the creative process behind her novels, and insights into the Australian crime writing scene. Discover how she crafts her stories, the importance of community, and her upcoming projects. Find Hayley's books on Booktopia  Dirt TownGirl Fallinghttps://hayleyscrivenor.com/ A belated congratulations to the winners of this year's Ned Kelly Awards. Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we're joined by Troy Hunter who shares his journey from marketing professional to acclaimed young adult crime author.  We explore his writing process, the importance of place in storytelling, and how he thoughtfully handles complex themes like identity and mental health in his books.  In this episode, Troy Hunter shares his insights on the importance of diverse storytelling, and strategies to encourage reluctant readers, especially boys, to develop a love for books. The books of Troy Hunter Gus and the Missing BoyGus and the Burning StonesFollow Troy  Instagram A belated congratulations to the winners of this year's Ned Kelly Awards. Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we're joined by Troy Hunter who shares his journey from marketing professional to acclaimed young adult crime author.  We explore his writing process, the importance of place in storytelling, and how he thoughtfully handles complex themes like identity and mental health in his books.  In this episode, Troy Hunter shares his insights on the importance of diverse storytelling, and strategies to encourage reluctant readers, especially boys, to develop a love for books. The books of Troy Hunter Gus and the Missing BoyGus and the Burning StonesFollow Troy  InstagramA belated congratulations to the winners of this year's Ned Kelly Awards. Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail The 2026 Davitt Award winners have been announced, and in this bonus episode we look at these thoroughly deserving winners.  A huge congratulations to the below winners of this year's awards.  Learn more about the Davitt Awards and Sisters in Crime.  Best Adult Fiction:  Joanna Jenkins, The Bluff (Allen & Unwin) Best Nonfiction: Kate Wild, The Red House (Allen & Unwin) Best Young Adult Novel: Amy Doak, What Have They done to Liza McLean? (Penguin Random House Australia) Best Children’s Novel: Sarah Armstrong, Run (Hardie Grant Children’s) Highly Commended – Children’s Novel: Amelia Mellor, Oceanforged: The Wicked Ship (Simon & Schuster Australia) Best Debut: Angie Faye Martin, Melaleuca (HQ Fiction)  Kerry Greenwood Readers’ Choice Award: Sally Hepworth, Mad Mabel (Macmillan Australia) Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail In part two of our conversation with Sam Elliott, we talk about how he crafts his characters, including the lead character of his novel, Haze, Dahlia Turner (and 2027's Deep Fake).  He also discusses the solitary journey that is writing, the process of writing and re-writing and how his preferred kind of feedback is "brutal honesty, scorched earth... don't sugarcoat anything."  Plus, he talks about not letting anyone "dim your shine." It's an open, honest and insightful chat.  Sam's debut novel, Haze Haze, by Sam ElliottSam's podcast The Write Way (hosted by Sam)About the Write Way A program founded and hosted by author and interviewer Samuel Elliott, that features a broad and disparate range of writer folk guests, ranging from international best-selling authors, to debut novelists or those as-yet unpublished writers.  Regardless of what stage of their career they might be at, all of them are united by a love of writing, as well as having overcome some brutal challenges to get to where they are. This program will discuss not only each guest’s latest and greatest work or project, but also delve into what they’ve faced and conquered along their way to inevitable success. A belated congratulations to the winners of this year's Ned Kelly Awards. Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail In this episode Helen and Leigh speak to Sydney crime writer, Sam Elliott, who shares his journey from childhood obsessions to publishing his debut novel 'Haze'. Sam discusses character creation, researching for authenticity, and the intense process of bringing a story to life, including the impact of editing and the significance of Australian settings and themes.  Samuel details his writing process and the importance of community, how he handles feedback, and his upcoming projects including the novel Deep Fake. He also discusses the challenges and rewards of a writing career and offers advice for aspiring authors. Sam's debut novel, Haze Haze, by Sam ElliottSam's podcast The Write Way (hosted by Sam)About the Write Way A program founded and hosted by author and interviewer Samuel Elliott, that features a broad and disparate range of writer folk guests, ranging from international best-selling authors, to debut novelists or those as-yet unpublished writers.  Regardless of what stage of their career they might be at, all of them are united by a love of writing, as well as having overcome some brutal challenges to get to where they are. This program will discuss not only each guest’s latest and greatest work or project, but also delve into what they’ve faced and conquered along their way to inevitable success. A belated congratulations to the winners of this year's Ned Kelly Awards. Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail In part two of our conversation with Sarah Bailey, we talk about the relationship she has with the team around her; her agent, editor and publisher and how this helps shape her work.  We talk about Ai and its impact, and then - as we always do - we finish part two with our quick and the curious questions... which is always fun! Books by Sarah Bailey The Gemma Woodstock series The Dark LakeInto the NightWhere the Dead GoBody of LiesThe Oli Groves series The HousemateClickHe Read, She Read podcast (with J.P Pomare) https://www.sarahbaileyauthor.com/ A belated congratulations to the winners of this year's Ned Kelly Awards. Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail In this episode we speak to and explore the journey of Sarah Bailey, acclaimed crime writer known for her gripping crime thrillers. With a background in PR and communications, Sarah transitioned from a successful corporate career to focus on her writing.  Books by Sarah Bailey The Gemma Woodstock series The Dark LakeInto the NightWhere the Dead GoBody of LiesThe Oli Groves series The HousemateClickHe Read, She Read podcast (with J.P Pomare) https://www.sarahbaileyauthor.com/ A belated congratulations to the winners of this year's Ned Kelly Awards. Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Leigh and Helen explore the vibrant landscape of Australian children's and young adult crime and mystery books. They discuss award-winning titles, influential authors like John Marsden, and upcoming releases, highlighting how these stories shape the next generation of readers and writers. Children's Book Week 2026 https://cbca.org.au/childrens-book-week/Books we discussed The books of John MarsdenThe books of Amy DoakThe books of Aaron BlabeyWe saw what you started, by Carla SalmonTrue South, by Gisela Ervin-WardRun, by Sarah ArmstrongThe books of Kate EmeryKey Topics Australian children's and YA crime booksJohn Marsden's influence on Australian literatureUpcoming Australian crime book awards and nominationsThe role of mystery in young adult fictionNotable Australian authors and series in YA crimeThe importance of nurturing young readers in the crime genre.Keywords Australian children's books, young adult crime fiction, John Marsden, Children's Book Week, Australian authors, mystery books, YA series, crime adjacent stories, Australian literature, book awards Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail In the second part of our conversation with Australian crime writer Dinuka Mackenzie, we dive into her new novel, She Lied First and continue our chat as she shares her journey from environmental planner to acclaimed crime. Author of the Kate Miles series, featuring a female detective navigating the chaotic world of regional policing and motherhood. With her debut novel, The Torrent, winning the prestigious HarperCollins Banjo Prize in 2020, she has proven her talent in crafting compelling stories. Dinuka's books The Torrent (Kate Miles, book one)Taken (Kate Miles, book two)Tipping Point (Kate Miles, book three)She Lied First (standalone, released July 2026)Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we're joined by Australian crime writer Dinuka Mackenzie, who shares her journey from environmental planner to  author, her writing process, and insights into her series featuring Detective Kate Miles. Discover how she crafts suspense, develops characters, and explores themes of family, identity, and resilience. Dinuka's books The Torrent (Kate Miles, book one)Taken (Kate Miles, book two)Tipping Point (Kate Miles, book three)She Lied First (standalone, released July 2026)Key Topics Dinuka Mackenzie's transition from environmental planning to writingThe creation and development of the Kate Miles seriesBalancing series and standalone novelsResearch and authenticity in crime fictionCharacter-driven storytelling and emotional depthRaising stakes and maintaining suspenseRepresentation of multicultural Australia in her booksWriting process: from first draft to publicationReader feedback and its impact on her writingFuture projects and genre explorationChapters Introduction and guest backgroundThe journey from environmental planner to authorWriting the first draft and industry learningsReactions to her debut and early successDeep dive into the Kate Miles seriesThemes of family, loyalty, and personal struggleWriting the third Kate Miles novel, Tipping PointKeywords Crime fiction, Australian authors, writing process, character development, series writing, psychological thriller, crime series, author interview, storytelling, crime novels Booktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail In this engaging conversation, Christine Gregory shares her unique journey into crime fiction, discussing her experiences as a writer, the development of her novels, and the intricate relationships that shape her stories.  She delves into the importance of character development, the challenges of writing from multiple perspectives, and the dynamics of father-daughter relationships in her work. Christine also reflects on her writing process, the significance of mentorship, and the journey from manuscript to publication, offering insights into the realities of being a writer in Australia.  Christine Gregory discusses her evolution as a writer, focusing on her improved dialogue skills and the development of her characters in her second book, 'The Informant.' She shares insights on writing from diverse perspectives, the importance of a supportive writing community, and the flow state that enhances her writing process. Additionally, she reflects on reader feedback and the potential for a film adaptation of her work, concluding with a light-hearted rapid-fire round. Christine Gregory's books The InformantThe CommunityChapters The Journey to Publication: From Manuscript to BookMentorship and Growth as a WriterReflections on Writing Habits and Lessons LearnedRefining Dialogue and Writing HabitsExploring 'The Informant' and Character DevelopmentWriting Characters with Diverse Lived ExperiencesThe Flow State in WritingBuilding a Support Network for WritersReader Feedback and ReceptionCasting Characters for Film AdaptationDesert Island Book ChoiceRapid Fire Round: Quick QuestionsBooktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Christine Gregory shares her journey from aspiring writer to published crime novelist, discussing her writing process, character development, research methods, and insights into the Australian crime fiction scene. A must-listen for aspiring authors and crime fiction fans alike. Christine Gregory's books The InformantThe CommunityChapters Introduction to Christine Gregory and Her JourneyThe Community: A Deep Dive into Characters and SettingExploring Perspectives: Multiple Viewpoints in Crime FictionFathers and Daughters: Complex Relationships in The CommunityWriting Process: From Idea to ManuscriptResearch and Realism in Crime WritingThe Journey to Publication: From Manuscript to BookMentorship and Growth as a WriterReflections on Writing Habits and Lessons LearnedBooktopia Affiliate Program The Kill City Podcast is a part of the Booktopia Affiliate Program, meaning that when you purchase a book from Booktopia using one of the above the links, we get a small commission. Or as they'd say in the crime world, a kick back!  At the Kill City Podcast we love celebrating and promoting the work of Australian writers, publishers and bookstores, and we hope you do too. Disclaimer The episode transcripts are auto-generated, and while all efforts are made to ensure their accuracy, there may be some instance of incorrect spelling and/or errors in the accuracy. www.killcitypodcast.com.au