Confessions of a Book Collector

In this uplifting episode, David sits down with Florence Knapp, author of one of 2025’s biggest debut novels, The Names. Together they explore how the smallest shifts in your routine and the most ordinary decisions can alter the entire course of your life. Listen now, to this truly joyful episode.

From touring Europe as a musician, to a 12 year career in publishing working with some of the world’s biggest authors - Hattie William’s is now a celebrated debut author whose novel Bittersweet has secured a six figure deal with Orion Fiction.Set in the heady, complex world of London publishing, Bittersweet explores a toxic age-gap relationship, the messy beauty of female friendship, and the hidden wounds that shape our choices.Hattie opens up about how the story and characters arrived, and her history as a reader. We discuss everything from Ted Hughes and Sylvia Plath to friendship, grief, ambition, and emotional dependency - plus the unexpected joy of writing strong, surprising friendships.

If you’ve ever wondered how a book club works, and how the books are chosen, then this is for you.In this special episode, David turns the page back to where it all began 20 years ago, from PREM1ER’s humble origins to the powerhouse book collecting community it is now.Find out how it all started, why it’s so popular with readers and revisit some of the standout titles that have shaped its story - from the very first pick to recent international bestsellers.

What happens when a brand strategist discovers they can craft award-winning novels? International bestselling author Lex Noteboom joins David to share his incredible journey from his science fiction podcast The Deca Tapes (which landed him multiple book deals in the UK and US) to creating his latest novel, The Man with a Thousand Faces.Lex reveals his intense world-building writing process, including creating an entire fictional country with its own political systems and maps. Discover when he first realised he could be an author, his biggest fiction influences, and his unique approach to writing bestselling novels.

In this episode we speak to international bestselling author, Will Carver, known for his dark, genre-defying thrillers. Will has been described as ‘arguably the most original writer in Britain’, and if you’ve read his work, you’ll understand why. He’s written mind-bending novels including Good Samaritans, Nothing Important Happened Today and many more, which blend gritty crime, sharp satire and physiological suspense.Our conversation explores Will’s highly anticipated new novel Kill Them With Kindness, a dark, funny and speculative thriller described as ‘widely original’ and ‘slightly bonkers'. We go behind the scenes to uncover how he creates his mould-breaking thrillers, and take a peek at his personal book collection that’s shaped his writing.

In this episode of Confessions of a Book Collector, David Headley sits down with publishing trailblazer and founder of Orenda Books, Karen Sullivan. Celebrating ten years of her fiercely independent publishing house, Karen shares the story behind Orenda’s rise. From championing fiction in translation, to building a loyal community of readers and authors. Expect candid chat about the challenges facing publishers today, the risk and reward of translated fiction, why branding matters, and what makes a book truly stand out in a crowded market.

In this episode of Confessions of a Book Collector, David Headley sits down with the wildly talented Beth Lewis to explore her stunning new novel, The Rush - a gripping historical crime thriller set during the Yukon Gold Rush of 1898. Beth shares what drew her to this icy, lawless frontier and why she chose to spotlight the extraordinary women who braved it. From real-life inspiration and wild west research (including actual gold panning!) to the craft of building unforgettable characters, Beth opens up about her creative process, queer representation in fiction, and the beauty of writing women who refuse to be overlooked. Whether you're here for the history, the mystery, or the pure love of books, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, David sits down with the inimitable Joe Abercrombie - renowned epic fantasy author and film editor.With his signature humour and insights, Joe discusses building a reimagined medieval Europe, creating complex characters (such as his irresistible vampire, badass librarian and undead knight), whilst sharing the inspiration and journey behind his gripping new trilogy, The Devils.

British-Nigerian Emmy nominee Remi Kone - known for hit TV shows like Killing Eve and Spooks - joins us to talk about her leap from the screen to the page. In this intriguing episode, Remi explores her love of reading and top book recommendations (possibly the most we've ever had on an episode!), and takes us behind the scenes of her breathtaking debut crime thriller, Innocent Guilt.

Find out what happens when an earth shattering identity crisis takes you from promoting other people’s books, to writing your own.In this episode, David interviews Georgia Leighton, a senior publishing marketing manager turned debut fantasy author. Discover more about her new novel Spellbound: an enchanting new fantasy and feminist retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty fairy tale.