In The Good Books with Luke Bateman

Prepare for a peek inside the one-of-a-kind mind behind some of the most seriously kid-approved stories ever! In this episode, record-breaking and internationally bestselling children’s author and Australian Children’s Laureate Andy Griffiths shares: How telling neighborhood kids fibs about his bath time led to his love of storytelling How his path to being an author first led to teaching and punk-rock Why iconic children's stories like Hansel & Gretel have a special blend of horror and humour The 5 Essential Elements of Children's Fiction How Andy still listens closely to his inner ten year old Andy's mission as Australian Children’s Laureate to defend endangered school libraries and rebuild long-form focus in a screen-obsessed world. How all his books (including his latest You and Me and the Gigantic Knucklehead) are always true stories (even if nothing true happens in them) How absurd, uninhibited play is the key to imagination and creativity for anyone And much much more. See omnystudio.com/listener for…

Luke becomes acquainted with this regency romance classic, with it themes, characters and moments, and what they all have to show us about modern romance today. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast Thanks to Hachette - for the list of their expert readalikes for Pride and Prejudice and other Good Book Club picks, go to https://www.hachette.com.au/news/in-the-good-books and for more, visit www.hachette.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luke is joined by Shen Tao, the brilliant debut author behind The Poet Empress—a novel Luke proudly declares as his favorite book of the year so far! But despite being a debut, it was far from Shen's first work. In fact, as she reveals, there were many unpublished books before it... Shen details exactly what made The Poet Empress different, the breakthrough that allowed its first four chapters to "flow like water," how dark themes of forbidden female literacy and systemic corruption shaped the narrative, and how ancient Chinese philosophy and different views of masculinity helped humanise her complex antagonists. Plus, she reveals the books that most influence her life, and why writing to her is a true form of magic. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From relentless research, to battling book bans, to a career of 30 bestsellers and counting, Jodi Picoult is a literary force unlike any other. In this conversation, Luke and Jodi trace her journey from reading at three years old and surviving over 100 agent rejections (and getting the ultimate petty revenge decades later) to the eerie 10-word postcard that inspired her new book, Hollow Bones, and a peek into what she's working on next. Jodi pulls back the curtain on her creative process—explaining the "tornado" moment when a book’s first line finally touches down, and the deeply personal reasons behind the big topics she chooses to explore. Jodi also pulls zero punches on culture and society, exposing the infuriating inadequacies within women's healthcare, the true political motive behind censorship in schools, and her hot take on why she 'calls BS' on William Shakespeare. Complete with warm reflections on her legacy, this episode is a masterclass in craft, courage, and conviction. See…

Sydney-based author Joshua Hortinella, after becoming beloved in the book industry for over a decade, has just penned Hate You to Love You, one of the most vibrant romance debuts of the year. Josh spills wild behind-the-scenes secrets of bookselling—including the joys of stocking, heartwarming customer interactions, and mysterious boxes. He opens up about how queer representation helped him overcoming feeling like a "side character" in his own life, shares the emotional highs and lows of writing enemies-to-lovers dynamics, how his book was an accidental love letter, and why holding it for the first time was an experience so powerful he almost had a panic attack. But most of all, Josh shares his deep love for love itself, including rom-com nostalgia and why queer literature is for everyone, along with his top three recommendations for jus that topic... along with the book he is drawn to read every single winter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A pre-birth prophecy, a contrarian relationship to fear that pushes her toward her deepest discomforts, and years spent studying both the stars and the greatest monsters of our imaginations alike. These aren't the notes of a fictional character - this is the lore of V.E Schwab herself! In this incredibly candid interview, she tells Luke all about it, along with illuminating insights into her writing philosophy and her most loved works, including: How The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue contains her most personal character ever (that's not Addie!) How Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil explores not only her favourite monster, but one of her favourite themes How she had the end to her her upcoming novel Victorious, the finale in her Villains Trilogy, from the very start - and exactly what we can expect from it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are few more beloved voices in fantasy writing than Australia's own Garth Nix - with Luke accounting for a fair share of that love himself. Here, the two finally sit down to discuss Garth's hesitant awakening as a writer, his process of using 'bad maps' to great novels, how his landmark work Sabriel was originally intended to be very different, his latest venture (and adventure) into science fiction with Massif - and even why he thinks that if he weren't a writer, he might well be in jail! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luke dives into his own personal "Good Book": Raymond E. Feist's fantasy classic, Magician. From picking up a paperback copy fresh out of rehab, to examining how Pug and Tomas's journeys inspired his own path to recovery, Luke shares why this epic story changed his life—and analyzes what it’s like to come back to it now. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast Thanks to Hachette - for the list of their expert readalikes for Magician and other Good Book Club picks, go to https://www.hachette.com.au/news/in-the-good-books and for more, visit www.hachette.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luke is joined by Em Rusciano—the powerhouse singer, comedian, author, broadcaster, podcaster and more—for an uninhibited, laugh-out-loud, and deeply honest conversation about midlife awakenings, the transformative power of putting yourself first and the liberating world of spicy romance novels. Em opens up about her love for literary smut and why bookstores urgently need a dedicated "middle-aged horn aisle". She retells how ADHD and autism influenced her reading, why books were a safe-haven, overcoming dyslexia, and turning personal trauma into her raw autobiography, 'Blood, Sweat and Glitter'. Em also shares the hilarity and liberation of stepping into her single era in her 40s, dating younger men, and why her stand-up show Addicted to Love is a rallying cry for women to stop sacrificing themselves for others and finally choose their own happiness. For tour dates and tickets head here: https://emrusciano.com/addicted-to-love/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Liane Moriarty, author of mega best-sellers Big Little Lies, Nine Perfect Strangers and more, joins Luke in the studio for a candid, hilarious, and insightful conversation on her writing process, career origin story, and long-awaited return to her most famous literary world. In this episode, Liane opens up about growing up in a story-obsessed household of six kids—where her dad funded her earliest writing efforts—and reveals how a sudden flash of sibling envy over her sister's debut novel finally kicked her own multi-million-copy career into gear. She offers a fascinating look into Big Little Truths, her new book and first-ever sequel, sharing how Hollywood adaptations subtly reshaped how she visualized her own characters, like Nicole Kidman's Celeste, and the unique pressure of writing characters ten years later. Plus, she reveals how even after all this time and all those copies sold, she sometimes still has to trick herself to write (using some very ornate equipment), and why her fans are her biggest…

You wouldn't expect constructing a crime thriller to be a time of laughter and healing after a tragic loss. But that's exactly what it was for Matt Nable. In this conversation, the multi-talented ex-sport star, actor and author talks about why writing is his biggest love above all, the encouragement another legendary Australian writer gave him that changed everything, the moment he felt safe revealing his creativity to his fellow footy-mates, everything that went into crafting his latest book Mire. Find more of Matt's books here: https://www.hachette.com.au/matt-nable Thanks to Hachette Australia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The episode that proves that you SHOULD meet your heroes Luke is joined by Peter V. Brett, the acclaimed writer behind the Demon Cycle, a fantasy series destined to one of Luke's favourites from the moment he picked it up at 13. In this raw and far-ranging chat, Luke gets to express just how much Peter's work has meant to him, and explore the incredible impact that fantasy can have as a whole. Peter retells the beginnings of his career, from the many manuscripts that will never see the light of day, to writing his breakthrough on his phone on the subway to his day job, the breakthough, all he learned along the way- and even a peek at what's next. He explains how witnessing the 9/11 attacks in New York inspired his written world, how he deliberately aims for his works to make his readers more empathetic, the importance of representation, what true literary heroes really look like, and the incredible power fantasy has to empower us and help us find belonging. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prepare to be immersed in the times and lives of history in the most sweeping epic of Maggie O'Farrell's career yet. In this episode, Luke breaks down the lyrical, poetry-like prose and perspective-shifting narrative while exploring the story's rich tapestry of 19th-century Irish history, complex family dynamics, and the resonances he himself found with the stories vivid characters. How do the hardships of the past shape who we are? Can forcing ourselves to slow down help us truly step into another person's shoes? What does it mean to deeply belong to a place that outlasts all human attempts to own or alter it? What are your thoughts? Let us know and have your voice notes featured on the podcast: email goodbooks@taptmedia.com.au. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast Thanks to Hachette - for the list of their expert readalikes for Land and other Good Book Club picks, go to…

What books do young boys really want to read? Scott Stuart, a passionate children's author and advocate for inclusive stories, joins Luke to reveal the surprising truths about gender bias in reading, how to break free from it, and the simple (and often joyful) acts that can ignite lifelong love of reading - even for reluctant boys. You'll learn how to model reading as a parent, the importance of diverse voices, and the power of engaging with children’s interests, whether it be Disney or sports. Scott shares inspiring stories about on-the-ground literacy efforts, from author visits to library access disparities, illustrating the broader social impact of promoting inclusivity in literature. And you'll hear about his response to censorship controversies - including having his books criminalised and called out by Donald Trump - how it only encouraged him to continue challenging societal norms and trying to create a safer, more welcoming, more empathetic and inclusive world for our kids. See…

What does it really take to breathe life into a bestseller? To make another time come alive? To place us into a polyphony of perspectives? In this candid conversation, acclaimed author Maggie O’Farrell joins Luke Bateman to unpack her extraordinary life story and highly intuitive creative process. From surviving a life-altering childhood illness at age eight that forced her to re-learn basic motor skills and embrace reading (and re-reading), to inspirations and insights into her most acclaimed works such as Hamnet, Land and The Marriage Portrait, and why Irish culture is uniquely built for storytelling. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

'Becoming a man is a process of subtraction' - so says one of the leading experts in masculinity and men's mental health. But why? And what can we do to change that? In this episode, Luke is joined by Dr Zac Seidler: clinical psychologist, Global Director of Research at Movember and Associate Professor with Orygen at the University of Melbourne. Together, they dismantle the many stories men are told, and learn to tell themselves, about how they should be - from how the pressures of self-optimization culture creates isolated "lone-wolves", to the "perception gap" that keeps men from expressing themselves, and how reading, especially fiction, can serve as an antidote, and a path to empathy and authenticity. What are your thoughts? Let us know and have your voice notes featured on the podcast: email goodbooks@taptmedia.com.au. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for…

We're back to finish Luke's list of favourite books he's read this year - including an EPIC fantasy, a global best-seller smash, the end of a romantic trilogy very well known to listeners of this podcast, and Luke's absolute top pick which he now calls one of his favourites of all time! Which of these have you read? What have your favourite book discoveries of the year been so far? Let us know and have your voice notes featured on the podcast: email goodbooks@taptmedia.com.au. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's the halfway point of the year and, surprise, Luke's read a lot of books so far! Here he takes us through some of his favourite discoveries - from a fantasy at the end of the world, sci-fi that takes you out of this world, a non-fiction that changes the way you see our world and more. Which of these have you read? What have your favourite book discoveries of the year been so far? Let us know and have your voice notes featured on the podcast: email goodbooks@taptmedia.com.au. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let's be clear - this definitely isn't one to have on in the car with the kids. Luke is joined by his friend, the beautiful and brilliant Tierney Page, for an unfiltered, laugh-out-loud, and deeply insightful chat that might change how you see romance writing. From her hilariously honest reading roots—recounting how A Court of Thorns and Roses and its "hot fairies" served as her ultimate gateway back into books —to spontaneously deciding to become a romance novelist, Tierney also dishes on her writing process, explaining how she crafts high-heat scenes that actually develop character relationships and progress the plot, and her secrets for penning the perfect male main character. Together, Luke and Tierney put some respect on the genre that underpins the entire publishing industry, exploring why romance novels are essentially the ultimate handbook for men on communication, consent and desire, about the cathartic, vulnerable reality of using books as a personal journal for healing, and much more. Find more…

For the many years Georgie Tunny has graced our TV screens, and many others before, there was another dream she held: the dream of being an author, a dream she has now achieved with Over to You - her debut novel of fierce female friendships set behind the scenes of the high stakes chaos of the media world. In this episode, Georgie draws the lines between her own career and the inspirations for the book, she shares her very relatable early reading loves, how her writing process was far less peaceful than she expected, the truths she's had to face up to about sexism and ageism in her industry, and despite how much she has in common with Luke (which is a lot) there's one thing about how they like their books that couldn't be more different... See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charlotte McConaghy (Wild Dark Shore, Migrations, Once Were Wolves) is one of Australia's most acclaimed authors; known for her lush prose, fiercely emotional tone and environments so rich you feel instantly transported. And turns out, her process is every bit as wild as what it creates. In this episode, Charlotte tells Luke all about how she practically skipped school homework after starting her first book at fourteen, how she intentionally channels her biggest emotions—from intense sadness and rage to deep fear—into her protagonists so they can fight their way toward healing, peace, and love, and how a wild research trip to a haunted island was the biggest breakthrough of her recent novel. Don't forget to check out the Good Books Club episode discussing Charlotte's work Migrations! What are your thoughts? Let us know and have your voice notes featured on the podcast: email goodbooks@taptmedia.com.au. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok -…

How far would you go to find hope in a desolate world? Are we all just wild at heart? How can we accept and be loved for who we truly are? These are just some of the questions that arise as you journey with Charlotte McConaghy’s breathtaking climate fiction masterpiece, Migrations (also published as The Last Migration). In this episode, Luke breaks down McConaghy’s lyrical, screenwriting-paced prose while diving headfirst into the story's raw landscape of grief, environmental desolation, and the beautiful, unconditional love that still pervades through it all. What are your thoughts? Let us know and have your voice notes featured on the podcast: email goodbooks@taptmedia.com.au. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast Thanks to Hachette - for the list of their expert readalikes for Migrations, go to https://www.hachette.com.au/news/in-the-good-books and for more, visit www.hachette.com.au See…

What if the collapse of everything we know isn't a catastrophe to fear, but an opportunity for our fullest humanity? This is the idea explored by multi-New York Times and Amazon bestselling author and social philosopher Sarah Wilson in her latest book I Eat the Stars. In this conversation, she explains exactly what complex systems collapse means, the process of writing the book, including speaking to over 200 global thought leaders, why we must continue to create art no matter what, and what radical hope and love truly look like. Did this conversation spark something for you? Have some thoughts of your own? Share them with Luke - email a voice note to goodbooks@taptmedia.com.au Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Naomi may be the daughter of Nobel Prize winning writer Kazuo Ishiguro, but for her own writing, she is carving a very different and distinctly unique path - particularly in her new book The Rainshadow Orphans. It's one that balances high stakes adventure with writing that feels like a warm coat, that makes our inner children smile, and that tastes like bubble tea. In this chat, Naomi talks about what it was like growing up in a very literary household, her time in a 'book spa' working to find people their perfect book, the power of found families, her love of the fantasy community, and the reasons she chooses to follow joy See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luke is putting his spice tolerance to the test by ranking nine of the most romantic books he's read by how hot the action really gets. From the safe and tender pages of mainstream rom-coms to the completely unhinged world of monster smut, Luke lets you know which books keep their socks on and which ones bring serious ghost pepper heat. Turn up the AC - and maybe close the door - because things are about to get spicy on In The Good Books. Thanks to our sponsor Wild Secrets. Visit wildsecrets.com.au and use the code GOODBOOKS for a 20% discount. Wild Secrets, Pleasure Delivered. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you wanted proof of the life-changing power of writing, you need look no further than Matt Haig. It hasn't just helped his countless readers, but first and foremost, it helped him too. In this chat, you'll hear how about his turbulent early life, the similarities his story share with Luke's and how his first book was born of a total breakdown. Matt talks about why simple stories and writing can often be the most powerful, the crucial choices behind his best seller 'The Midnight Library' and how its new companion, 'The Midnight Train' is almost in an argument with it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've got mail - and opinions. Luke pens his reply to Virginia Evans modern epistolary masterpiece and smash lit-hit of 2026 'The Correspondent', including why a book composed entirely of correspondence can be more compelling than prose, what it teaches us about making meaning of our lives, the beauty of connecting to others (and ourselves) and why we should all start writing letters again! And if you like The Correspondent, Luke share's an expertly curated list of similar titles thanks to our friends at Hachette. Thanks to Hachette - for the list of their expert readalikes for The Correspondent, go to https://www.hachette.com.au/news/in-the-good-books and for more, visit www.hachette.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's hilarious, it's heart-wrenching, it's hectic. It's one of the most addictive series in modern fiction. And it's one awesome audiobook experience. It's Dungeon Crawler Carl - and in this episode, Luke chats to the masterminds behind it: author Matt Dinniman and audiobook producer, narrator and voice actor Jeff Hays. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here's why books ARE good! Luke pages through multiple studies showing the (often mind-blowing) ways that reading has been proven to be beneficial for us. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's time to hear some of the beautiful messages about books and reading that have been generously shared from the Good Books community, as Luke reacts and gives his thoughts. And it just might get emotional. Got something to send of your own to be featured in a future episode? Send your voice notes to goodbooks@nine.com.au Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luke reflects on the life-affirming messages within Matthew Haig's best-seller the Midnight Library; delving into its themes of alternate lives, regret and possibility and how he saw himself within it. Plus, find out which book the Good Books Club will be looking at next! Warning: this episode contains brief mentions of self harm Join in the Book Club discussion! We'd love to hear your thoughts on this book. Send your voice memos to goodbooks@nine.com.au Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luke brings his fresh friendship with comedian Nath Valvo out of the jungle and into Good Books studio! Nath reveals the books that help him in his comedy and screenwriting, his childhood reading loves (that might just trigger some nostalgia) and the queer romance novel that he thinks 'walked so things like Heated Rivalry could run.' They also discuss how personal growth can challenge others, how it's sometimes difficult to say you're good at what you do and Nathan's somewhat controversial take on audiobooks... Have someone you'd LOVE for Luke to talk to next? Or anything else you want him to hear? Send your voice memos to goodbooks@nine.com.au Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The characters we find in novels may not exist outside of our imaginations - but the values, lessons and examples they provide are real. From someone that mirrored Luke's own experience, to the kind of parent he hopes he can be in the future, here are some of his favourite literary role models. Who are the characters that have inspired, challenged or changed you? Let Luke know by sending your voice notes to goodbooks@nine.com.au. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

True strength and responsibility as a man doesn't come in any pre-conceived definition of masculinity, but in the courage to confront your own unprocessed pain That's according to Matt Brown—author, barber, and founder of the global movement She Is Not Your Rehab. Drawing from his own experience of leaving a childhood home at just 15 years old, Matt has become a leading voice in the movement to end generational trauma. In this conversation, Luke and Matt dive deep into why men must take radical responsibility for their own healing, why places like barbershops can be key to unlocking male vulnerability, how to ensure the next generation doesn't carry burdens that aren't theirs to bear, along with practical steps for men to begin their own healing journey today - including how reading and writing can be the most powerful tools. Connect with Matt Brown: Website: She Is Not Your Rehab Instagram: @SheIsNotYourRehab Send your voice memo to GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram -…

Did Luke ever mention he's pretty into fantasy novels? But what about you? If you're yet to discover the magic of the genre, here are some titles Luke reckons are the perfect places to start. They dispel common myths, answer common criticisms, they might reassure you that fantasy isn't too different from what you're reading already - and above all, they're just good books! Do you agree with these picks? What have you recommended as a first fantasy for your friends? What got you into fantasy? Send your voice memo to GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Does Kristin Hannah deliberately try to devastate us emotionally with her writing? The legendary best-selling author of The Women, the Great Alone, the Nightingale and Between Sisters sits down with Luke to discuss her process, her research, her emotionally devastating reputation and more. Is there an author you’d love to hear Luke interview next? Or a book he NEEDS to read? Or anything else you want to share? Send your voice memo to GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Complete immortality. Total freedom. But the world will never know you. Would you take the deal? Today Luke dives into the magic, heartbreak and sensuality of our most recent Good Books Club read. What would YOU like to be part of our book club next? Send your voice memo to GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are some things the screen just can’t capture. From all time classics to those in cinemas now, from tear-jerking romances to sci-fi epics, here are Luke’s top picks for books that are worth the read even when you’ve already seen the film. What are your top picks on this topic? Got a book recommendation for Luke? Or anything else you want him to hear? Send us your voice note by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Stay connected on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The love goes on! Luke continues to unpack the literary relationships that give us all the feels. We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hopeless romantics, meet Luke. These are the books that make your heart ACHE — from the secret locker room romance of Heated Rivalry to the emotional wrecking ball that is The Song of Achilles and more… We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join The Good Books Club as Luke reviews C.M. Nascosta's spicy read, 'Moon Blooded Breeding Clinic'. We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paullina Simons talks how her life shaped her writing, The Bronze Horseman, her new book The Bell and the Blade, and why she writes 'love in loveless times' [00:43] - Paullina on finding Luke [02:21] - Paullina’s early life [05:34] - How Paullina’s love of stories began [07:35] - Paullina’s earliest literary loves: The Three Musketeers, Les Miserables, the Count of Monte Cristo [12:22] - Paullina’s first story [15:15] - Why Paullina is drawn to writing about hardship and resilience [17:13] - Victor Frankl’s ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ [18:48] - The Bronze Horseman [25:00] - The Bell and the Blade [33:22] - What is Paullina’s favourite out of everything she’s written? [35:38] - what Advice would Paullina give to an aspiring writer? [36:21] - East of Eden by John Steinbeck [39:35] - Paullina’s Good Book [40:45] - Ordinary People by Judith Guest [41:06] - Shopgirl by Steve Martin [41:50] - Paullina’s relationship to fantasy [42:49] - The Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien [43:07] - The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien…

Struggling to start a habit or stay motivated? Hear all the practical, no-pressure advice and proven hacks to help anyone discover the joy of reading and make it a daily practice. (00:00) Intro (00:31) Listener Audio (02:20)Why Reading is Important (05:11) Mindset Tip #1: Drop the Shoulds (07:33) Mindset Tip #2: The 50 Page Rule (08:33) Mindset Tip #3: Develop a Reading Identity (09:52) Medium Tip #1: Audiobooks are Not Cheating (12:22) Medium Tip #2: Invest in a Portable Reader (14:12) Habit Tip #1: Habit Stacking (15:16) Habit Tip #2: Replace Your Scrolling (16:14) Habit Tip #3: Make it Social (18:20) Consistency Beats Intensity (20:35) Share Your Reading Tips and Tricks We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From ride-or-die besties to deep, complex bonds, Luke explores the most memorable friendships which anchor the greatest fantasy novels and fictional worlds. (00:00) Intro (00:34) Listener Audio (04:47) Friendships in Fiction (07:12) Friendship #1: Locke and Jean from The Gentleman Bastard series (11:57)Friendship #2: Jude and Willem from A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara (17:53)Friendship #3: Aman Jair and Arlen Bales from The Demon Cycle series (22:27) The Importance of Friendship (24:06) Share Your Friendship Stories and Favorite Fictional Friendships We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join The Good Books Club as Luke reviews Paullina Simons’ sweeping historical romance, The Bronze Horseman. (00:00) Intro (00:34) Listener Audio (03:23) The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons (04:15) First Impressions (06:18) The Setting: Leningrad, the Siege, and the War Hardship (09:11) Tension in the Metanova Apartment (10:26) The Love Story (11:38) The Sexual/Romantic Writing (13:40) Alexander's Character (16:45) SPOILER: Alexander's Sacrifice and The Ending (19:20) Final Takeaway (21:05) The Next Book Club Pick: Moon Blooded Breeding Clinic by CM Ncosta We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Move over, Chosen Ones. We're shining a spotlight on the fantastic but often overlooked side characters of fantasy who well and truly make the story. (00:00) Intro (00:34) Listener Audio: A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara (04:33) Unsung Heroes in Fiction (06:03) #1: Samwise Gamgee from The Lord of the Rings (09:28) #2: Szeth-son-son-Vallano from Stormlight Archive (12:49) #3: Night Eyes from Realm of the Elderlings (16:41) The Importance of Unsung Heroes and Why We Relate to Them (18:19) Share Your Favorite Unsung Heroes We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New year, new me... Right? Luke shares the four most impactful non-fiction books to help you achieve personal growth, cultivate success, and change your mindset for a better 2026. (00:00) Intro (00:34) Listener Audio (01:19) Book Recommendation: The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne (02:29) How to Become the Best Version of Yourself (04:47) The Science of Stuck by Britt Frank (08:21) Atomic Habits by James Clear (11:24) The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins (15:40) The Second Mountain by David Brooks (20:01) The 4-Book Wrap Up (21:00) Make Reading Books A 2026 Goal We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Forget everything you know about magic. From a deep dive into the incredible world-building to the unforgettable journey of Sabriel, Luke tackles Garth Nix's iconic fantasy series, The Old Kingdom Trilogy. (00:00) Intro (00:32) Listener Audio (02:39) The Old Kingdom Trilogy by Garth Nix (05:07) Initial Connection to the Series (07:08) Sabriel by Garth Nix (10:45) Lirael by Garth Nix (15:03) Abhorsen by Garth Nix (17:54) Encouragement to Read or Reread the Trilogy (19:05) Call to Listeners: Share Your Takeaways (19:50) Closing Remarks We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join The Good Books Club as Luke reviews Kristin Hannah's epic Alaskan survival story, The Great Alone. (00:00) Intro (00:34) Listener Audio (03:19) The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah (04:12) First Impressions (05:22) Immediate Takeaways (07:20) The Setting of Alaska (08:16) Key Themes (11:57) Complex Characters (15:50) SPOILER WARNING: The Ending (21:17) Call to Listeners: Your Experiences of the Book (23:53) The Next Book Club Pick: The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegoodbooks_podcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matthew Reilly steps into The Writer's Room to discuss his latest books The Detective and the creative process behind his bestselling novels. (00:54) Matthew Reilly's Books Shaped Luke's Reading Journey (02:55) Getting Young Guys Back to Reading: The Power of Ice Station and Hell Island (05:01) Influential School Books: To Kill a Mockingbird and Lord of the Flies (07:31) Literary Influences (09:07) Advice to His 19-Year-Old Self (13:43) The Epic Scope of Mr. Einstein's Secretary (14:16) Finding Sam Speedman's Voice in The Detective (17:10) Every New Book Must Be Better Than the Last (22:01) Not Surprising the Reader with Unsolvable Twists (27:55) Obsessiveness in Writing (33:42) Writing for Book Clubs (39:15)The Impact of Killing Off a Character in Scarecrow (44:34) Matthew Reilly's "Good Book" We want to hear from you! Send us your audio by emailing us at GoodBooks@nine.com.au. Follow all the action on our socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthegoodbooks_podcast/ TikTok -…