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The Conversation with Nadine MathesonAuthor: Nadine Matheson Language: en-gb Genres: Arts, Books, Personal Journals, Society & Culture Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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Linwood Barclay: The Pursuit of Perfection and Runaway Trains
Episode 179
Wednesday, 4 June, 2025
"I don't know what it is about writing," muses Linwood Barclay in the opening moments of this conversation. "Even when you've had success and think, 'I don't have to write anymore, I've got money in the bank,' there's always this feeling that if I could write just one more book, maybe it'll be perfect."This pursuit of the perfect novel drives our fascinating conversation with the New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author, whose journey from aspiring writer facing countless rejections to international success offers a masterclass in patience and perseverance. Barclay candidly reveals how his 30-year career in newspapers provided invaluable training before publishing his first novel at 49, and how it was actually his fifth book, "No Time For Goodbye" that became his breakout hit.We delve into publishing industry changes, the challenges of adaptation attempts, and the reason his latest supernatural thriller "Whistle" (which aims to make toy trains as terrifying as horror cinema has made dolls) was the most fun he's had writing in a decade.Whether you're a writer seeking inspiration or a reader curious about the mind behind bestselling thrillers, this episode offers wisdom, humour, and Linwood Barclay's surprisingly practical advice for authors.Send us a textSupport the show"Enjoying 'The Conversation'? Support the podcast by buying me a cup of coffee ☕️! Every contribution helps keep the show going.https://ko-fi.com/nadinemathesonDon't forget to subscribe, download and review. You can purchase books by the authors featured in our conversations through my affiliate shop on Bookshop.org. By using this link, you’ll be supporting independent bookstores, and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Follow Me:www.nadinematheson.com BlueSky: @nadinematheson.com Substack: @nadinematheson Instagram: @queennadsThreads: @nadinematheson Facebook: nadinemathesonbooksTikTok: @writer_nadinematheson