Stories Behind the Story with Better Reading

Marian Keyes talks to Cheryl about the life experiences that shaped her books. From her journey through addiction and recovery to her reflections on feminism, resilience and finding happiness in unexpected places, Marian shares how writing became both a lifeline and a source of joy. With her trademark wit and honesty, she reveals how personal hardship can fuel creativity and connection. Her latest book, My Favourite Mistake, is out now.

Madeleine Cleary talks to Cheryl about her path to publication, the importance of collaboration with editors, and how balancing a full-time job with writing has shaped her creative process. Her latest work, The Butterfly Women, is out now. 

Omar Sakr talks to Cheryl about resistance, censorship, and the power of poetry to bring clarity, connection, and hope in turbulent times. His latest work in collaboration with illustrator Safdar Ahmed, The Nightmare Sequence, is out now. 

Andrew HC McDonald talks to Cheryl about his journey to publication, the editing process that transformed The Monticello School of Swearing, and his love for languages, including his experience learning Mandarin. He shares insights into the charm of Sicily, where his novel is set, the realities of book marketing, and the balance between passion and practicality in a writing career. His latest novel, The Monticello School of Swearing, is out now.

Cassie Hamer talks to Cheryl about the importance of character development, the dynamics of the plot, and how Cassie’s personal experiences influence her storytelling. Her latest novel, A Stranger at The Table, is out now.

Isabel Allende talks to Cheryl about being honoured with a Barbie doll in her likeness, writing during uncertain global times, and the importance of small acts of resistance and connection. Her latest novel, My Name is Emilia Del Valle, is out now.

Natasha Lester talks to Cheryl about her writing process, the challenges of balancing creativity with the demands of daily life and how personal experiences influence her writing. Her latest novel, The Mademoiselle Alliance, is out now.

Renee Salt and Kate Thompson talk to Cheryl about Renee’s harrowing experiences during the Holocaust, her survival, and the lasting impact of trauma and resilience. Kate discusses how she captured Renee’s vivid memories through recorded conversations, exploring both the pain and the significance of remembering. Co-written by Kate Thompson and Holocaust survivor Renee Salt, A Mother’s Promise is out now.

Patricia Wolf talks to Cheryl about identity, belonging, and the power of landscape in storytelling, as Patricia reflects on her two-decade-long life away from Australia and how the distance has changed her perspective on home. Her latest novel, Opal, is out now.