Confessions of a Book Collector

In the final episode of our Pride Month series, David talks to former BBC journalist and award-winning author AJ West, who shares an open and heartfelt account of his journey to becoming a published novelist. Go behind the scenes of his critically acclaimed debut and uncover the inspiration behind his latest eagerly awaited release, The Betrayal of Thomas True. This episode promises laughter, deep insights, and truly touching moments.

David interviews Dr Layla McCay, Director of Policy at the NHS Confederation, psychiatrist, and author of the recent non fiction hit 'Breaking The Rainbow Ceiling'. Layla shares the challenges facing LGBTQ+ professionals as they navigate their careers and we explore some of her most treasured reads. This is the third episode in our Pride Month series.

Join us in our Pride Month series as David sits down with Stefan, one half of the dynamic duo behind the celebrated travel blog, The Nomadic Boys. Since quitting their jobs and leaving behind their London lives in 2014, Stefan and his partner Sebastien have been on a global journey, sharing their adventures and invaluable insights through their popular blog.In this episode, Stefan discusses their upcoming debut book, "The Gay Guide to Travelling with Pride: Out In The World." Discover the inspiration behind the book and listen to Stefan's stories about navigating travel in countries where being gay is still taboo or even illegal. 

Join us as we launch our Pride Month series with an insightful interview featuring the brilliant Abi Fellows. Recently shortlisted for Agent of the Year at the Bookseller Awards, Abi is dedicated to championing minority voices in the publishing world. Tune in to hear her inspiring journey and invaluable insights into the industry.

Ahead of her appearance at the Capital Crime Festival, David sits down with acclaimed author Kellye Garrett, a US-based expert in crafting compulsive thriller page-turners. Tune in to discover the book that sparked her passion for thriller fiction at the tender age of five, explore her favourite thriller reads, and hear her insightful views on diversity within the genre.

In this interview, David speaks to one of the most important people in books in the UK, the incredible Amanda Ross. Amanda is the co-founder of Cactus TV,  and is behind major book-based campaigns such as Richard & Judy’s Book Club, and the televising of The Galaxy National Book Awards and the Crime Thriller Awards.Amanda has a true passion for books, and has helped to start the career of so many brilliant authors, it was a joy to have her on the show to discuss her experience.

TV producer turned author, Sam Burr, discusses his debut novel The Fellowship Of Puzzlemakers, sharing insights on weaving intricate puzzles into a story, exploring themes of kindness and community during Covid, and reflecting on childhood influences and storytelling techniques.

We speak to dynamic duo Chris and Jen Sugden, authors of the recent Sunday Times bestselling book, High Voltage, and masterminds behind the critically acclaimed audio drama podcast, Victoriocity.The duo explain what it takes to create a bestselling book and successful drama podcast, how to create gripping characters and stories that resonate, and share their top underrated authors.

From dealing with dangerous individuals in her policing days to creating compelling crime fiction characters for her new novels, T M Payne is poised to be the new rising star in Crime Fiction.Listen as we explore her journey from working in the justice system to breaking into the crime fiction scene. Tina also gives us a sneak peak into her highly anticipated new crime novel ‘Long Time Dead’.

In this brilliant conversion, bestselling titan of crime fiction, Mark Billingham, shares his deep-seated passion and history of book collecting, whilst revealing a major exclusive on his latest novel. Listen as Mark reminisces on unforgettable encounters with literary icons, whilst reflecting on his own journey from a fan attending author signings, to sitting behind the signing table himself as a celebrated author.See Mark at Capital Crime Festival on Saturday 1st June in London.